KASABIAN
The Alchemist’s Euphoria (Columbia)
Kasabian’s seventh studio album – The Alchemist’s Euphoria – is also their first since the sacking of frontman Tom Meighan for domestic assault. Chief songwriter Serge Pizzorno has taken over lead vocals but his voice doesn’t have the edge that Meighan’s had, and his delivery less dynamic. This softer version of Kasabian feels strange at first and it isn’t until Alygatyr, four songs in, that we step into more familiar territory.
The Alchemist’s Euphoria is a concept album of sorts, with the theme of impending death running throughout, and if anyone doubted that Pizzorno and co have psychedelic leanings, the track T.U.E. has overt Pink Floyd overtones. But it’s not all doom and gloom: the almost upbeat Chemicals delivers the message “Whatever don’t kill ya makes ya stronger,” while Letting Go suggests, “everything will be okay”. A curiously melancholic album from a band whose new lineup may still take more getting used to.
words LYNDA NASH
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