S
According to his own estimation, “Sadness Sets Me Free” is Gruff Rhys’ 25th album, including his work with Super Furry Animals and various side projects. Like much of his previous work, it strikes a delicate balance between sorrow and happiness: tackling weighty themes with a light touch. “They Sold My Home to Build a Skyscraper” is a prime example, discussing the destruction of cultural spaces for luxury apartments, with somber lyrics that contrast against its infectiously upbeat Tropicália influences. Meanwhile, “Cover Up the Cover Up” boldly advocates for rebellion against the monarchy, public schools, and the government, but does so in a subtle and understated manner.
While some of the tracks address somber subject matters, such as the separation described in I Tendered My Resignation, they are balanced with clever and attention-grabbing lyrics, like “I said, ‘I’m a barista’/ She heard ‘barrister'” in Celestial Candyfloss. The lyrics are thought-provoking and the music is richly arranged – what’s not to enjoy?
Source: theguardian.com
