Baltimore’s Future Islands have reached another level of experimentation in their sophomore LP On The Water; the Atlantic. As heard from the studios they eagerly worked in on the coast of North Carolina, they’ve implemented the sound of the ocean throughout the tracks (clearly on "Typee Island"), creating a lush 80’s pop soundtrack fit for the broken hearted (or a sequel to Neverending Story. Well, the way Hollywood’s been lately, we’re due for a remake and Future Islands should effing score that; frrr sure.) Vocalist Samuel T. Herring, bassist William Cashion, and keyboardist Gerrit Welmers seriously tug at the heartstrings in ten beautiful tracks that blend catchy hooks with moving rhythms.
"Before the Bridge" is emotionally powerful with a depressing chord struck in the keys, and a bit of latin flair incorporated before colliding into an intense rhythm, all the while Herring crooning lyrics of heartbreak,"I can’t forget, somehow, for, to forget a love, is to regret."
"The Great Fire" featuring vocals from Wye Oak‘s Jenn Wasner, follows in the trail of heartbreak that "Bridge" had laid out beforehand, urging for another chance with that love you lost. "If you let me be there, again, I’ll be still, won’t say a word." Keys swell, and Siouxsee-ish bells chime in to add that goth glimmer to a ballad already oozing with true feeling.
"Close To None" is a soothing blend of trippy keys leading into Twin Peaks territory, only to snap swiftly into a fun dance beat and a slight turnaround on the road of heartbreak as the lyrics change direction to anticipation. "And now that I’ve found you, you’re not alone." So it’s a happy ending. Overall, it’s a journey I’m ready to take again. -Dawn
Check out this serene video for the first single off On the Water, "Before the Bridge."