Review: Ceremonials

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This review post may seem a bit random on a blog about finishing uni but music is an essential part of getting uni work done and of student life (well it is for me anyway, I can't just sit in silence and work!) 'Ceremonials' has provided the soundtrack to all the hours I have spent doing uni work and I love it so much I have decided to review it for you, hope you enjoy.


Band Name: Florence and The Machine
Album Title: Ceremonials
Label: Universal Island Records.


Florence and The Machine's debut album was released in 2009 and was aptly titled ‘Lungs’. The band’s first album is full of magical harp sounds and war-like drum beats accompanied by Florence Welch’s powerful yet beautiful vocal. There was a lot of hype and excitement surrounding the release of ‘Lungs’ and the album did not disappoint. The debut album topped the UK album chart and features tracks such as ‘You got the Love’ and ‘Drumming Song’.

courtesy of mixtapemaestro.

After the success of ‘Lungs’, Florence was under pressure to release an even better second album. The band did not disappoint and 'Ceremonials' went straight to number 1 in the UK album chart. It is hard to place Florence and The Machine in to one particular genre as her voice, use of instruments and lyrics are so unique compared to other bands who are currently occupying the music scene.

From the start to finish of ‘Ceremonials’, we are taken through a magical yet sometimes haunting musical journey. The opening track ‘Only If for a Night’ mixes Welch’s captivating vocal with enchanting piano, drum and strings providing the instrumental soundtrack. Although many of the tracks on this album consist of a similar instrumental arrangement with Florence’s voice layered on top, they all provide enjoyable and easy listening.

In terms of style, ‘Ceremonials’ does not differ greatly to the debut ‘Lungs’ but this is not necessarily a bad thing. The tracks that make up ‘Ceremonials’ improve on the elements that made ‘Lungs’ such a success, resulting in an excellent second album.

Standout tracks include two songs released as singles, ‘Shake it out’ and ‘No light, No Light’. Both tracks feature catchy choruses delivered skilfully by Florence and unlike some songs on this album, the lyrics are easy to pick up allowing listeners to easily belt out the words along with Welch. However, the more upbeat  ‘Lover to Lover’ is my favourite track and with its faster tempo and jazzy piano runs in the background, the song never fails to put me in a good mood.

‘Ceremonials’ is an album which can be easily enjoyed in a number of situations. It is a perfect choice for driving music, getting ready to go out or for just relaxing around the house. Even if you have not heard Florence and the Machine’s first album, I recommend you give ‘Ceremonials’ a listen. This album has provided the soundtrack to all the hours I have spent doing research for my dissertation and I still enjoy it as much as I did the first time I heard it.

Rating: * * * *



Are you also a Florence fan? Or do you prefer someone else? I would love to know your opinions on 'Ceremonials' and what albums you enjoy listening to.