Another step forward and one that throws you around from light to dark, from high to low.
At its best, Given to the Wild introduces you to a sensation not previously derived from the Maccabees' oeuvre: of songs not really doing what you'd expect.
It’s their breakthrough album and shows that with focus and confidence, the future could be pretty exciting for The Maccabees.
Somewhat uneasy listening in places, yet sublime in others, Given To The Wild should rid The Maccabees of those 'landfill' jibes once and for all.
Given to the Wild is an accomplished, filler-free record that presents a band at peak condition, handily exceeding the marginal example set by similar-sounding acts.
The personalities on this album are so blank the songs may as well be performed by apps, and sung by Siri.
The Maccabees’ third album is a lot more experimental than the fast, post-punk influenced sound of their first album. A drastic sonic evolution had been made, with a lot more emphasis on creating an atmosphere, like on the album’s introduction, which flows so well into Child that they could almost be one song. The transitions from track to tracks is so fluid and smooth, it makes listening to the album a lot easier to listen to in full. Orlando Weekes shows his great songwriting ... read more
Much like fellow English men in Elbow, Maccabees have built a great formula balancing the adrenaline fueled alternative anthems ready for commercial play, with more muted, introspective tunes. Overall, one of the most consistent bands releasing albums in this newish century.
1 | Given to the Wild (Intro) 2:11 | |
2 | Child 4:31 | |
3 | Feel to Follow 3:29 | |
4 | Ayla 3:47 | |
5 | Glimmer 4:04 | |
6 | Forever I've Known 5:22 | |
7 | Heave 4:27 | |
8 | Pelican 3:45 | |
9 | Went Away 3:39 | |
10 | Go 4:13 | |
11 | Unknow 5:09 | |
12 | Slowly One 4:18 | |
13 | Grew Up at Midnight 4:01 |