EP REVIEW: The Valley Of Vision – Manchester Orchestra
Atlanta-based MANCHESTER ORCHESTRA are well-loved for their subversive indie rock sound and beautiful lyrics, and their latest EP The Valley Of Vision is likely to be their most experimental record yet. Released alongside a 180-degree virtual reality film, the EP details a story of self-redemption and gratitude in an immersive, carefully curated project. The Valley Of Vision was recorded with the members of MANCHESTER ORCHECTRA in entirely different places, which is a challenge in itself, as well as the band completely changing up how they make music, ensuring this EP will be different if nothing else.
Opening the EP is Capital Karma, with gentle, deliberate piano. Vocalist Andy Hull’s voice is always beautiful, and the tentative beginnings of this song prove no different. With an incredible range, and delicate female backing vocals, he details a heart-breaking and deeply honest account. As the track builds, it’s difficult to not become emotionally invested in the story that plays out, and it’s easy to imagine it as the soundtrack to a film. Generally, it might take a few listens to fully appreciate the depth of every detail, like many of the songs on The Valley Of Vision, but it can also be just as hard-hitting on the first play.
Next is The Way, another incredibly well-written track. The lyrics are a perfect mix of descriptive imagery and clever wordplay, accompanied by rich, slightly jazz-inspired piano. Quietly is a gently sad track, which seems to go through different phases. Beginning with a heartbeat and whispered vocals, and suddenly building in urgency, the intensity increases.
If The Valley Of Vision is a journey through human emotions, Letting Go is acceptance. The simplicity of the lyrics reflect deep feelings, and the message here is painful, but portrayed well. The experimental elements of the EP are demonstrated here, with various sound effects and synths, and while it does feel very slightly chaotic, it seems to work.
At this point in the EP, listeners are deeply invested in the story that’s being told, and Lose You Again puts together the pieces of the puzzle in another breathtaking song. The simplicity of the chorus compared to the depth and complexity in the verses makes it impossible to not feel a part of their world. Alongside gentle guitars and strong, purposeful vocals, this song makes for a firm favourite. Rear View, a stripped back track with slight folk punk influences, closes the EP.
While the instrumentals are a vital element in immersing listeners, it’s the lyrics that bring The Valley Of Vision to the next level. Taking us through a roller-coaster of emotions, and uncovering hidden feelings is a pretty impressive feat for only six songs, and yet MANCHESTER ORCHESTRA achieve it effortlessly.
Rating: 9/10
The Valley Of Vision is out now via Loma Vista Recordings.
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