Oh, Melancholie

After a long and unforseen “hiatus” was taken from alternagence i decided it was time to come back to her.  For this review I’m going to describe the musical depression that is Arab Strap.  The album, “Philophobia,” which, by definition, is the abnormal fear of love and intimacy, is a slow, brooding affair.  The Scottish duo is made up of vocalist Aidan Moffat and Multi-intsrumentalist Malcom Middleton.

The Album starts off with the phrase “It was the biggest cock you’d ever seen.  But you have no idea where that cock has been.”  These lyrics are consistent with Arab Strap on two varying levels.  The band’s name itself is a sexual reference (see: Arab Strap.)  Also, they continually deal with issues such as sex and relationships that have faltered.  The opening track broods on at a slow pace and never really hits too hard.

“Soaps” is the standout track on “Philophobia.”  Again, the track runs  along at a slow pace, yet there is a certain aspect to the song that creates an empathetic feeling.  When listening the song conjures up images of an empty pub with a broken man, leaning upon the bar as if it was his best friend, drinking down a beer at last call.  The song gains a sweeping volume at the end which conveys a profound message of perhaps realization.

One aspect of the album that sets it apart from many others is the incorporation of electronics into what would usually be exclusively acoustic tracks.  Drum Machines and Synthesizers are prevalent throughout the album.  When in most cases this could devalue the song, Aidan’s voice and the electronics fit together perfectly.

On many tracks, including “New Birds,” Aidam Moffat speaks indfferently over the music.  There is a certain bone-chilling quality to his story telling.  In the named song, the music comes to a climactic stop in which Aidan calmly speaks about a fall day.

You can see her breath in the air between your faces as you stand in the leaves and she just asks you straight out if you want to come and stay at her flat. But you make sure you get separate taxis and you go home and there might be a slight regret and you might wonder what you missed but you have to remember the kiss you worked so hard on – and you’ll know you’ve done the right thing.

This entire album is filled with subtle guitars and electronics.  Aidan Moffat’s vocals are enough to make one cry.  While sad music may not be for all, i recommend Philophobia to anyone who enjoys a nice work of art.