London Grammar, fronted by songwriter and vocalist Hannah Reid, have drawn comparisons to indie behemoths such as Florence and the Machine and The xx. Certainly, there are similarities in elements of their music, but the young trio from the U.K. have ultimately improved on the aforementioned acts’ weaknesses. Reid’s voice has the power of Florence Welch’s but far more control in hitting higher notes. She also possesses the ethereality and vulnerability of Elena Tonra (Daughter) and touches of Victoria Legrand’s (Beach House) serenity.
The backing music is reminiscent of The xx’s minimalistic yet atmospheric guitar and percussion with the bonus of masterfully placed piano that at many times serves as Reid’s duet partner. With an appearance on Disclosure’s album in the song “Help Me Lose My Mind” and the release of several entrancing singles and covers, they have already gained a substantial fan base, but If You Wait may be what makes them colossal.
Beginning with their hit single “Hey Now,” the ebb and flow of the album create an experience that should not be broken up. One highlight is a cover of Kavinsky’s magnum opus “Nightcall,” from the movie “Drive.” The first half of the song exemplifies the band’s ability to complement Reid’s impassioned vocals and eventually progresses into a percussion-heavy sound, evoking trip-hop comparable to Portishead or Massive Attack. If anything, “Strong” is the standout song, but that is not much of a statement in such a cohesive album lacking misplaced or underwhelming tracks.
Every once in a while, an album completely redefines one’s musical ideals by completely dethroning some of your favorite albums, rekindling forgotten emotions and demanding repeat listens. With their debut, London Grammar have established themselves not only as artists to watch but ones to revere.
https://soundcloud.com/londongrammar/hey-now