UNKLE - The Road: Part 1

The always intriguing UNKLE have returned with The Road: Part 1 - an album that takes inspiration far beyond the usual realms of the artist. Elements of folk and soul are littered throughout the songs, and collaborations with hugely respected artists such as Justin Stanley of Beck, and up and comers such as Mïnk add multiple layers of originality to the music. The fusion of trip hop, electronic and alt rock is as clear as always, however the rock element is more heavily focused on this LP. Many of the tracks, such as The Road, are lengthy and fast rock songs, providing an intense and bouncy instrumentation coupled with the phenomenal vocals of ESKA. However, it is in the electronic tracks that this album really breaks through. Arm’s Length is certainly the high point of the record, with an ambient beat that increases in urgency throughout, with tingling hi-hats and haunting vocals scattered throughout its five minute journey. Slow, drawn out piano sections and rather dull spoken word interludes complete the album’s package, which is an extremely varied but enjoyable listen – I am looking forward to part 2!