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Flying Dream 1 Image
Metascore
83

Universal acclaim - based on 8 Critic Reviews What's this?

User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 11 Ratings

  • Summary: The ninth full-length studio release for British alternative rock band Elbow was recorded at the Theatre Royal Brighton.
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Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 8
  2. Negative: 0 out of 8
  1. Uncut
    Nov 17, 2021
    90
    There's a gorgeously somnambulant yet softly romantic feel to these 10 songs. ... And it benefits from masterfully subtle arrangement touches. [Dec 2021, p.27]
  2. Nov 22, 2021
    82
    Flying Dream 1 is in no rush to get anywhere. Its lyrics and music are more lovely than ever before, chock-full of gorgeous piano lines to match Garvey’s husky croon.
  3. Mojo
    Nov 17, 2021
    80
    Garvey's lyricism is elevated by the subtle complexity of the music, clarinets, choral voices and churchy keyboards whispering through the vents of these sons, causing a quiet stir. [Dec 2021, p.86]
  4. Nov 17, 2021
    80
    Flying Dream 1 is, in many respects, a typical Elbow album – warm, comforting and sincere. It’s also a record that many of us need after the last two years.
  5. Nov 22, 2021
    80
    This is an album that (once again) quietly demands to be heard, and enjoyed, as an inseparable whole.
  6. Nov 29, 2021
    80
    It might take some time for Flying Dream 1 to fully grab you, but when it does, the album's measured, artful introspection is hard to shake.
  7. 60
    The result is a soothing, slow-burning collection which reflects on times and friends gone by.

See all 8 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2 out of 3
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 3
  3. Negative: 1 out of 3
  1. Dec 3, 2021
    10
    Beautifully crafted - patient, mature, and earnest. This album is Elbow at their core. Sonically presenting as the band's most uniquelyBeautifully crafted - patient, mature, and earnest. This album is Elbow at their core. Sonically presenting as the band's most uniquely emotive and deceivingly minimalist production yet, "Flying Dream 1" is aptly titled in it's grounded but ethereal approach. Beyond the intimacy and lullaby allure, however, Elbow tastefully implement their signature grandiosity at the most precise moments, lifting the album to new heights for brief and blissful moments when things start to purposefully revel in the beauty of the mundane. As usual, front-man Guy Garvey matches the full scope of this instrumental world building with his lyrical prose and emotional articulation, bringing with his words only butterflies and warmth with a pure sense of nostalgia. Personal and reflective yet universal in feeling, the lyrics and melodies elevate this album from being the most beautiful backing score to life's official soundtrack. This is an album that came out from the rubble when we needed it most, and for that reason it will hold a special place for me. In the scope of the world, 10 is realistically an over estimate, but this is my scale - and if it's a 10 to me, and it is, I'll give it that. Expand
  2. Nov 21, 2021
    10
    This is elbow at their best. Delicate composition, inspired lyricism and sensitive arrangement. Garvey’s vocals float through the the wholeThis is elbow at their best. Delicate composition, inspired lyricism and sensitive arrangement. Garvey’s vocals float through the the whole album with choral textures adding even more warmth in moments. Already have half of these Melodie’s trapped in my head. Expand
  3. Nov 19, 2021
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Es un álbum básico genérico aburrido es muy flojo falta más lírica y instrumental Expand