In their debut record, the British art pop group deliver with 12 enthralling and finely crafted tunes.
Every year, there are a few records that blindside me and come as a complete surprise. I tend to keep a pretty close eye on release schedules, but it's impossible to keep up with the amount of output. It's always a treat to experience the blind enjoyment of a truly great piece of art. That brings me to the LP I'll be talking about today.
'Prelude to Ecstasy' was not on my radar at all until its release. I'm sure glad it is now! It's a bit wild that this is the debut record for the British 5 piece 'the Last Dinner party.' Every track on the album is finely tuned and melodically satisfying and really shows that the musicians are wise beyond their years. The result is an art pop/indie rock record that flows straight through your ears and directly into your ears.
The title track kicks the record off on a fascinating note, delivering a short yet beautifully composed short orchestral piece. It's followed up by 'Burn Alive', a baroque, moody pop tune who's big, belting chorus will surely be swimming through your head for days after first listen. 'On Your Side' is a gut wrenching ballad of lost love and hard memories.
There are elements of indie rock, funk, jazz, pop, and more at play throughout the record (and often at once). Every direction they go is just as pleasing as the last. It makes for an exciting and captivating listen that feels fresh, even upon replays. The production is wonderful, with the full and diverse array of instruments being mixed with technical precision.
Lyrically, things are impressively catchy most times, and the themes of identity, feminism, sex, and the perfect amount of melancholy. It flows with the melodies and makes for a record that is in sync both thematically and sonically.
I can't recommend 'Prelude to Ecstasy' enough to listeners of all backgrounds. There's probably something for you in the varied and bravely brash track listing. I'm so glad that it came on my radar, and the least I can do is try and put it on yours. Give it a listen with an open mind, and prepare for an adventure.
Standout tracks: Burn Alive, the Feminine Urge, On Your Side, Sinner, My Lady of Mercy, Nothing Matters
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