BadBadNotGood - Talk Memory

XL Recordings

The BBNG boys have gone full on jazz fusion with their latest release 'Talk Memory'. Pulling together their improvisational tendencies and tying it in with Arthur Verocai's knack for lush composition - string arrangements and placements - the resulting album plays out like a best of both worlds BBNG affair.

Album opener 'Signal From the Noise' is heavily reminiscent of Red era King Crimson. It's downright dirty - with filthy bass tones and forthright drumming - but resonates with a beauty beneath the moments of madness. As the track slowly cools down it rises to meet you with a warm, homely embrace. In fact the majority of the record feels like a warm, homely embrace. Soothing strings - courtesy of Arthur Verocai - envelope the material with a fresh layer of calm. Like staring out at smooth waters the tranquility manifests horizon-like. 'Love Proceeding' rings in as one of the lushest tracks released so far this year. It encapsulates everything that there is to love about BBNG - being unapologetically cool and suave while remaining timid and tantalizingly talented. The beautiful addition of guitar chords brings home the feeling of eternal late summer/fall. It truly is home to the most beautiful of sound palettes - light blue's and variations of beige wash over the listener in peaceful ease.

Talk Memory packs a spirited, carefree punch - light on the heart and the head. But don't think that this means it lacks one hell of an emotive essence either - it catches you off-guard from time to time.

Talk Memory becomes the latest addition to the stellar BBNG catalogue. A contemporary, bright-eyed and refreshing take on the conventions of old.

Favourite Track: Love Proceeding