Having not delivered a full-length album since their 2008, you’d be forgiven for thinking it was all over for the Keane lads. Yet with Strangeland it is clear that these British alt-rockers will return to the music scene with a bang. Emotive and inspiring, the tracks are enough to captivate the most ardent critic of their usual ‘piano-pop’ style and are a testimony to their dedication in the recording studio.”
According to pianist Tim Rice-Oxley, Strangeland is “an adventure” in which “glorious discoveries” can be achieved. It contains an element of mystery, with each song comprising unique, unseen elements of the Keane ‘soul’. This originality makes each creative masterpiece truly worth tuning into. Of particular note within the album is the lead single “Silenced by the Night”. With its powerful beat and anthem-like melody, it undoubtedly captures the attention of the audience.l ‘piano-pop’ style and are a testimony to their dedication in the recording studio.
The euphonic rhythms and melodies are continued in the band’s single “Disconnected”. A textbook Keane ballad, the harmonies in this song are to die for and Chaplin’s voice once again soars through the musical register to great effect. However, the particularly striking element of “Disconnected” has to be its music video. Within this short clip, which possesses the qualities of a feature length film, Spanish directors Bayona and Sánchez present us with elements of darkness and suspense and is arguably the best music video of the 21st Century.
Judging by this album Keane will undoubtedly join the likes of U2 and Oasis in the annals of rock history.