5 stars
Florence and the Machine blow it out of the water with their new album How Big, How Blue, How Beautiful, which features sixteen tracks, including the album’s title track and two demo songs.
As always, Florence is able to fill the album full with her distinctive vocals and dynamic harmonies that seem to dig into the essence of being human. Within this album, there is a call to identify with the themes that the lyrics imply. The accompanying instrumental bolsters the thrilling narratives of the tracks. Slow songs and fast songs that inspire a plethora of emotions give this album the oomph it needs to outshine its predecessors.
“Ship to Wreck” is the first track on the album, setting the theme with an extended metaphor that boils down to a seafaring journey of self-discovery. It is a conversation that delves into the difficulty of having relationships with others and yourself. It is a fast-paced tune with emotional lyrics and a stunning music video.
The second track, titled "What Kind of Man," also deals with relationships and their consequences. It is reflective and pensive — and the music showcases those thought processes by building the tension and the drama. It starts out slow, but give it time and it'll blow you away.
Florence and the Machine is a very versatile group, and it shows in the tracks of this album. Each song is unique yet easily identifiable as part of their legacy. May the reign of Florence and the Machine stay strong and may they continue to make songs.
To get the day's news and headlines in your inbox each morning, sign up for our email newsletters.
