• Record Label: Virgin
  • Release Date: Nov 19, 2021
Metascore
83

Universal acclaim - based on 8 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 7 out of 8
  2. Negative: 0 out of 8
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  1. 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.
  2. 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]
  3. 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.
  4. 60
    The result is a soothing, slow-burning collection which reflects on times and friends gone by.
  5. 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.
  6. Nov 23, 2021
    80
    The confidence and trust they have as a group is manifested in the songs. Flying Dream 1 also trusts its listeners, asking us to hold a quiet space for the music and let it reveal itself over time. It requires a tiny leap of faith to “step into the air” and fly.
  7. Nov 22, 2021
    80
    This is an album that (once again) quietly demands to be heard, and enjoyed, as an inseparable whole.
  8. 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]

Awards & Rankings

User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 11 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 11
  2. Negative: 1 out of 11
  1. Nov 19, 2021
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click full review link to view. Es un álbum básico genérico aburrido es muy flojo falta más lírica y instrumental Full Review »
  2. 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. Full Review »
  3. 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. Full Review »