Cover of Turin Brakes Jackinabox
JohnCipollona

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For fans of turin brakes, indie folk lovers, and listeners seeking reflective, melodic music with emotional depth.
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THE REVIEW

Ah... summer, ah... music, ah... the annoying sound of crickets in the evening, ah... so many emotions that summer brings; at sunset, when I don't know what to do, I put on this nice little disc by the English duo that has been keeping me company for a while.
Their melodies are light, simple, pleasant, and at times refreshing; exactly what one would say about a summery, carefree, and cheerful album.
In reality, behind this sugary layer hides a meditative sadness that, even though "masked," echoes the mood of the splendid debut. Many hopes in this music from the two Albions who nod to West Coast sounds; good compositional skills especially in the lyrics, electro-acoustic flashes, and poignant tones.

Despite these good premises, the work ultimately convinces only partially. The intention to replicate what was The Optimist remains such, that is, "an attempt."
The album is listenable, but to appreciate its real content, some attention is needed; the aforementioned melodies are partly hinted at and not very immediate, enough to increase the interest in listening. I tried, but in the end, I was left with a bit of a bitter taste.
It lacks breath, the space-time dimension, and above all, impact.
Something has been conceived, time will make it grow and flourish. Dear Paridjanian & Knights, better luck next time.

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Summary by Bot

Jackinabox by Turin Brakes offers light, simple melodies with a summery and cheerful veneer, underpinned by a quietly meditative sadness. While showing solid songwriting and electro-acoustic elements, it struggles to fully replicate the success of their debut. The album requires focused listening to appreciate, but ultimately feels lacking in impact and depth. Despite its charm, it leaves the reviewer wanting more growth and emotional breadth.

Tracklist Lyrics Videos

01   They Can't Buy the Sunshine (03:08)

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04   Asleep With the Fireflies (05:01)

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05   Fishing for a Dream (04:29)

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06   Road to Nowhere (04:00)

07   Over and Over (03:09)

08   Last Clown (04:15)

09   Above the Clouds (03:47)

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10   Building Wraps Round Me (03:45)

11   JackInABox (04:21)

Turin Brakes

Turin Brakes are an English indie/folk duo from London, formed by Olly Knights and Gale Paridjanian. Emerging with the Mercury Prize–nominated debut The Optimist LP, they became associated with the new acoustic movement and followed with Ether Song and later records that broadened their sound with more electric textures.
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