BIG BIG TRAIN: REVIEW: 'THE LIKES OF US' - DAVE'S FAVES #30
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- Опубліковано 29 вер 2024
- The first Big Big Train full album with new singer Alberto Bravin. Here's my review, along with reflections on my own Big Big Train journey since 2009.
Big Big Train are a Progressive Rock band that have been recording for over twenty years. During that time they have established a reputation for melody, wonderful storytelling, and emotionally-resonant songwriting. Their popularity has grown steadily, especially since 2009's 'The Underfall Yard'. However, in 2021, singer David Langdon died in a tragic accident and the band has had to reform and relaunch itself with not only a new singer, but with several other new members. This new album is an exceedingly important step in their musical evolution and, quite frankly, a matter of survival as a professional band. They haven't disappointed us fans.
That was fascinating, David. Knowing nothing of the band's history or lineup, that was really informative. I had no idea the singer was Italian, nor that there was a brass band in there. Yes, there was some brass here and there, but never to the fore, like the violin. Personally, I quite like a bit of shredding, and it does appear in a fairly heavy section, but I agree it doesn't quite fit with the rest of the album. Thanks. Andy
Glad you found it helpful Andy. I think they've been a great band - amongst the very best - for quite some time. Prolific too. We can forgive the occasional drop in quality, but the latest album is a worthy 4*.
I completely agree with your assessment of the albums that BBT released after the English Electric releases. I got all those albums and notwithstanding the skill of the band members, like yourself I thought that it had all got a bit same same. That’s not to say that I didn’t like those albums, it’s just that it was all becoming a bit less adventurous and interesting.
Now, with this new album, I can still hear some elements of that same sameness. But the way that the entire “The Likes Of Us” package has been put together, in my very respectful submission, this is the only kind of album that BBT could have put out at this stage. What I mean is that with the introduction of Alberto Bravin as the new singer, this is a very safe album. It has to be. They can’t depart too much from their past. So, while it’s got the signature BBT sound, it’s also got fantastic musicianship, some great compositions and generally interesting themes and crucially, a great new voice fronting the band.
For me, It’s the next album that is going to be the big test for this band and their new singer. That’s if there’s going to be a next album. Or could this be Big Big Train’s Genesis/Ray Wilson moment, where they never come together again…..?
PS, “The Difference Machine” is for me one of their most interesting albums. I hold it up there alongside “The Underfall Yard”.
I can't argue with any of this. That 'safe' notion is bang on. The live shows had so much from 'English Electric' it was almost like they were promoting that album. I wasn't too impressed by that, but like most fans of their, I continue to wish them well. The next album is indeed going to be crucial.
Superb album and exceptional live band - pure musicianship! Last concert in London - Steve Hackett was there! INGENIOUS DEVICES is worth it - the transitional album - give that a listen.
Thanks Graham. I have acquired 'Ingenious Devices' and enjoy it too. Interesting that Hackett showed-up at the London gig. I wonder if he/they contemplated an on-stage collaboration?
Fell out of love with BBT because basically every album sounded the same, pastoral mid period Genesis, however took a chance on this one because of new lineup changes, however to my ears nothing has changed much and i found myself wandering off halfway through.Nice, inoffensive, but not for me
To varying degrees, I suspect we (and others) have suffered a degree of listener-fatigue. We've had too much of a good thing with the band putting out EPs and LPs at a remarkable rate. After a while they begin blending into each other, and it's become tricky to differentiate between them. I think when all the dust settles 'The Underfall Yard' and "English Electric' will go down as their version of 'DSOTM' and 'Wish You Were Here'. Definite career highlights. I'm please they've been able to carry on, despite the reservations surrounding the new line-up. There's a lot of goodwill directed towards them.
I'd still say that, with some patience' the new album offers an enjoyable, and not only inoffensive, listen. Thanks for your comment and for watching Brendan. Cheers.
I personally like to see them smiling and having fun on stage. As long as it doesn’t affect the depth and quality of the music, and it certainly hasn’t on the few occasions I’ve seen the new line-up. I’ve just been incredibly impressed with how the new members have fitted in and the musicianship they provide. Clearly evident on the new album. There’s no point in taking the band out on the road if they’re not going to enjoy the experience.
I certainly agree with you about not wanting the band to get too heavy and ‘metal’ in places. The melodies have always been what has attracted me to BBT. The 12 string, the folk and brass elements. Having said that, I don’t think the heavy, crunchy guitar segment detracts from Beneath The Masts too much, which is a fabulous piece of emotive and heartfelt music and as good as anything they have produced, in my opinion.
I’m just glad that the 3 longest serving band members wanted to carry on, and that their selection process for new band members has given them a new drive and freshness which I felt was missing on the last couple of albums.
I'm glad they've continued too, and I'm hoping they maintain the quality control going forward. Those previous two albums seemed 'rushed' to me.
Much like you, my experience with Big Big Train I was gradually losing interest in the band post Folklore - which I think still has it's merits ( especially the triptych of the last three tracks side 1 Along the Ridgeway/Salisbury Giant/Transit of Venus, and then Brooklands).
After that each album just got less interesting.
For me this latest album is very much a return to form as such. Still not at the level of EE1 and EE2.
Thanks for your thoughts on this album.
BTW I was also at those two London concerts you mentioned....