Review of From The Sea To The Land Beyond Album by British Sea Power

'We're all in it, and we close our eyes.'

British Sea Power From The Sea To The Land Beyond Album

'From the Sea to the Land Beyond' is the latest album from Brighton based sextet British Sea Power. It is the soundtrack to Penny Woolcock's 2012 documentary of the same name which uses BFI footage of the coastal areas of England; something that can be defined as traditionally British and complements British Sea Power's style perfectly.

Having been well-established for over a decade, British Sea Power have always remained independent and faithful to their roots while acknowledging their fondness of individuality and interest into British history. Thus, they were a perfect choice to accompany the above film as well as stamp a unique sound.

Although the album is a soundtrack, the music more than stands alone as a fully reputable album. The intro to 'From the Sea to the Land Beyond' delivers pure power, something BSP are always capable of conveying, yet the harmonious, hymn-like backing vocals add additional depth which come across as almost meditative. This sets the listener up for a real nostalgic journey throughout the song and, subsequently, through the album. 

'From The Sea.' comprises new versions of old songs such as 'Remarkable Diving Feat', which brings a faster pace and bears a resemblance to perhaps their most commercial single to date, 'Waving Flag's from 2008's 'Do You Like Rock Music?' There's also 'Red Rock Riviera''s slow, melancholy vibes issued by the use of the cornet which adds a deliberate provoking tone to the album. 

If anything, the album lacks the lyrical madness that has become a slight trademark in what the fans of British Sea Power have come to expect, but BSP still illustrate the talent they have by creating imagery via music to correspond with the film. Although some could argue that creating music with the use of a visual aid is easier, this album demonstrates the band's decade-long hard work. BSP and the documentary director have encapsulated the compelling nature of what it was truly like to be British over the past one hundred years. 

4/5

Tom Head


Official Site - http://www.britishseapower.co.uk

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