aaamusic | On 02, May 2011

As a record that dangerously teeters on the edge of becoming ‘background noise’, taking the time to truly listen to Agnes Obel’s album Philharmonics is a rewarding experience and once that I would strongly recommend.

A haunting and poignant sound, Obel captured me with the sombre beauty of this record. I became transfixed by Riverside, the second song on the album, which relies entirely on Obel’s vice and the backing of a piano. Evoking images of rolling hills and rivers, it provides a welcome escapism from the trappings of modern life. The rest of the record upholds this poignancy with simple, chilling music that successfully showcases Obel’s voice whilst its simplicity provides a refreshing addition to a largely over-produced, ‘try hard’ music scene.

The effortless beauty of this record can only truly be appreciated by allowing it your full attention, however, if you have the time to do so Philharmonics will offer you a blissful escape.

Author: Alice Cuddy