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LA RECENSIONE
Sheffield. That's where the MStU come from.
This "The bright carvings" is their first album, and if these are the premises, the future can only be bright... if someone behind some very large table will want it. This album is frighteningly mature and simply pop that it makes us wonder why it hasn't been written already!
This quintet operates within the realm of chilly, acoustic, and warm conversational indie pop, like a colorful woolen blanket to wrap oneself in against the harshness of winter. Nat's voice echoes that of Chrissie Hynde, who leaves the crazy city for a more folk environment.
The album opens with "Sheffield shanty", a plucked guitar, a slide narrating small stories in rainy days through the streets of their hometown. "Martin" is an uptempo accompanied by some strings and small flute interventions. "Jimmy down the well" is the single with driving drums and handclappings..
"Down" feels like a traditional song that MStU insert into their song list so much that the track itself seems to drag you into a forgotten time made of barnyard animals and morning frost. "You yesterday" is the song with the greatest singability, perfect live. The dramatic "Wallow" speaks of love fading away and the lack of attention in rekindling it by the protagonists. A few tracks later we find "Fonz you", a true acoustic rock n roll that makes knees and elbows roll. "Beautiful never" is a slow song that (actually, I don't know why) reminds of the best of Edie Brickell when she played with the new bohemians.
Those who love early Everything but the girl, the Delgados, or Kings of convenience must listen to "The bright carvings" by Monkey Swallows The Universe. Around here, it might be the album of the year.
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Summary by Bot
Monkey Swallows The Universe’s debut album, The Bright Carvings, presents a mature and warm indie pop sound with folk undertones. The Sheffield quintet combines acoustic elements and rich vocals reminiscent of Chrissie Hynde. Songs like "Sheffield Shanty" and "Jimmy Down the Well" showcase variety and mood, appealing to fans of folk and indie pop. The reviewer praises the album’s emotional depth and urges listeners to experience this standout release.Tracklist Videos
Monkey Swallows the Universe
Sheffield-based indie pop/folk quintet; debut album The Bright Carvings (2006) features acoustic arrangements and a distinctive female vocal.02 Reviews
Other reviews
By Pi.Per.
Here, there’s no sign of special effects, everything is exquisitely pure and human, no manipulations or machinations, just spontaneity and healthy craftsmanship.
When a grey mood grips us and it rains outside, when we want to unplug and relax with something warm and soft, that’s when the monkey surprisingly comes into our homes to digest the universe that oppresses us.
