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In the sixth song of Take That’s ninth album, “The Curious Days of Self-Hatred,” band members Gary Barlow, Howard Donald, and Mark Owen explore the world of ska music. This unexpected genre shift on an album filled with unexpected twists may not fully satisfy listeners, but it showcases the band’s willingness to experiment and not rely solely on their established discography that has become a staple in UK pop culture.
This Life was primarily recorded in Nashville and New York, breaking away from the unidentifiable synth-pop sounds of their previous albums III and Wonderland. Instead, the focus is on 70s MOR (middle of the road) and rustic pop-rock similar to Elton John’s style. The title track features lush harmonies and lively piano playing, while the single “Windows” combines a timeless, melodious chorus with acoustic guitar and grand orchestral strings.
Regrettably, this album follows the trend of the lead singer’s recent push for shared songwriting, with Owen’s melancholic track “The Champion” and Donald’s lackluster “One More Word” both wandering without finding truly memorable melodies. The final song, led by Barlow, “Where We Are” is a strong ending, but overall, the band’s desire to progress is commendable, yet the outcome is inconsistent.
Source: theguardian.com
