After their explosive and crically acclaimed debut album Lungs, Florence + the Machine is back with the entrancing and ambitious album Ceremonials.
Fittingly released on Halloween, Florence’s latest album has a more sinister tone than Lungs as she sings of devils, ghosts, ghouls and graveyards with haunting and evocative lyrics showcasing the darker and more brooding side of the quirky redhead.
Renowned for her raw vibrancy and powerful vocals, fans may be disappointed by the grandeur of the majority of the tracks and feel it detracts from the grace and simplicity of her previous work with unrelenting energy and heavy bass lines, tribal drums and backing choirs. These elements definitely add to the excitement and uplifting energy that this album offers. However, this makes it somewhat strenuous to listen to all 20 songs in one sitting. It is often in the rare moments of gentleness and simplicity that we can appreciate the beauty of her ethereal voice as she sings lyrically of heartbreak and tragedy, as in the opening of the powerful anthem “Shake it Out”.
Since rocketing to fame in 2009, Florence has toured and collaborated with a range of artists including Dizzee Rascal, Drake and MGMT and their influences on her are noticeable; something which adds an interesting dynamic to her songs whilst retaining her unique style.
The whole album is powerful and captures the true essence of the inspirational talent Welch’s voice demonstrates. Each song commands attention and leaves listeners marvelling at the energy and power of a singer who appears to be going from strength to strength.