[Severian]

I am certain there was already a thread about this, but I couldn't find it, and I gave up on the search feature. I apologize for the redundancy.

But the new Spiritualized album has arrived (see avatar for cover).

Pitchfork review- best new music
Stereogum review- Album of the week

I don't credit either of these sites, but many seem to, and on this they are certainly correct. This is not only the best album I've heard this year, it is the best record this band has made since "Ladies and Gentlemen..."

There are no weak links-- as there were in 2008's "Songs in A&E" (see: "Soul on Fire")-- and I actually cannot pick an initial standout. It's not because there are no great tracks, but rather that every track is equally enjoyable.
I am new but I am guessing that there are enough fans of this band on this board to warrant a new discussion (though I am sorry for the repeat), and I want people to know that anyone who may have been disappointed by the last few albums should not write off this album without a listen. It is very "rock," but it also has plenty to offer the more experimentally minded fan, and does not lack a certain drone/noise element.

I would very much like to hear other people's opinions about the record. Check it out on Spotify, and *buy the album* if you're a fan.

[noisereductions]

I really want to hear this.

[pad_023]

I really enjoyed it on first listen. Jason's best work in a while.

[dressedindreams]

Yeah I love it.

[Genteel Death]

I've only heard the single and it sounds like Ocean Colour Scene.

[batreleaser]

I bought it yesterday and love it. They are a pretty dependable band for me though. Even their mediocre stuff I tend to listen to often.

[A Thousand Threads]

I just tried to listen to it.
Never been that much of a Spiritualized fan and this one ain't gonna make me one.