Doves - Snowden

Either you're a Doves fan or you aren't, or at least that's what I've been told. I've heard a similar argument used in explaining dozens of bands, but something about the lavish attention given to Doves seems to be some sort of bizarre turn-off to the wellspring of talent from which they have emerged. Lost Cities, their soon-to-be released (and long awaited) follow up to 2002's seminal release The Last Broadcast will serve only to fan the flames of their famerocket, instantly drawing easy comparisons to The Delgados, Snow Patrol, Coldplay, and (of course) Doves themselves. But there is so much more here -- this new album goes beyond the confines of those comparisons and produces far more than I ever expected from an album that took this long. The last time I waited more than 3 years for an album from a band from Manchester, The Stone Roses produced what many considered a disaster that led to the breakup of the band. I can't believe that story will apply here at all.

This album was so worth the wait. It is an album which, in no uncertain terms, fully defines the truly great Northern soul experience. The unbridled rhythms, the soul-searing guitar and harmonica parts, the orchestral vibrations, the empassioned vocals, and the gifted songwriting mesh seamlessly to create an experience that totally transports me. When the album is available March 1st, you will be able to buy with confidence.

It's very hard not to be a fan of music when you hear evidence this strong that it is worth loving. Long Live Doves.

BONUS TRACK: One Of These Days