Typical. That’s the only word that comes to mind as I find words to describe the Sam Roberts Band (official new name by the way) latest effort, Collider. It’s not a bad album, in fact, it has a lot of tracks that I’m sure people will highlight as their favourite summer songs. That being said, the album doesn’t offer up anything new, it’s the typical sound we’re use to hearing from the Sam Roberts Band.
When I think of Sam Roberts, I can’t help but think of summer, open-air concerts, patios, light beer, etc. Maybe that’s because I only ever listen to him whilest partaking in any of those things. I won’t be surprised if while on a patio somewhere I hear “Without a Map” or ”Twist The Knife”. I’m sure “The Last Crusade” and “Graveyard Shift” will be the concert favourites. And I bet “No Arrows” or “Longitude” will make it onto some tv show: I’m envisioning two characters laughing away as they drive towards the beach in their convertible.
I suppose I lied when I said that Sam didn’t bring anything new to the table: he brought horns to a few tracks. Actually, I think the tracks with horns, “The Last Crusade” and “Streets of Heaven” are my favourites. Other standouts are “Let It In” with it’s cool rock harmonies, and “I Feel You” which is raw and sultry in The Black Keys kind of way.
Unfortunately, the last few tracks, well actually, almost the last half of the album as a whole, fall a bit flat and as such leave something to be desired.
Nonetheless, as noted before, I’m sure many fans will be content to add some of the band’s new music to their summer playlists.
Label: Universal Music
Rating: 6/10
Favourites: The Last Crusade, Let It In, Graveyard Shift, Streets of Heaven
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