You have to hand to The Naked and Famous. Three years on from their sophomore effort In Rolling Waves they're back with a stunning emotionally-evocative yet gripping ten-track record Simple Forms. They've defied a phenomenon beseting other artists in that they've grown older without losing the anthemic edge which defined their earlier works. Simple Forms is certainly a more mature sound, but it's still just so listenable.
Yet it could have all been so different. A relationship breakup between band members could condemn the sturdiest of groups. But The Naked And Famous moved on from internal turmoil and turned it to their advantage. Relationships, breaking up and moving on feature heavy in the lyrics of the record, particularly in Backslide and Last Forever. The former is heavy and dark while the latter is melodic and will no doubt feature on their upcoming tour's setlist.
Opening single Higher is catchy and radio-friendly, but far from the album's best track. While it's hard to pick a favourite, Laid Low is maybe my favourite. It's heartfelt and offers synths which throw right back to the 80s, or 2010, depending on your preference.
The Naked And Famous may never be the biggest band away from their home of New Zealand. But keep making records like this and they'll recruit a loyal fan-base who, just like me, will wait eagerly for their latest recording. While three years is a long time to wait, with a record as strong as this, the wait was definitely worth it.
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