514. Architecture & Morality - Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark

Having gone to the effort of adding the word 'Manoeuvres' to my computer's dictionary, I was optimistic that the album would be strong enough to reward that level of effort.

OMD were one of the bands to ride the synth-pop wave, and this, their third album, was their breakthrough. It had three singles that reached the top 5 in the UK, although I would have found it hard to pick them out from my initial listens. Souvenir in particular seems a bit too ponderous, relying too heavily on its central synth riff. The standout for me was the much deeper, and more progressive, Of All The Things We've Made, which has a lot more substance to it. Sealand is also interesting; more so than the two Joan of Arc singles.

The album is post-punk to its core, with synths and echoey vocals to the fore. There is a sense of isolation and depression throughout, not dissimilar to Joy Division in its prime, although it falls some way short of that bands heady heights. The production levels are impressive, and there are some decent moments throughout, but it doesn't seem to map together well enough for me, with elements of an overwrought Vangelis seeping in at times. 

The context in which we listened to this album - in the sun on an Italian island may also have factored into our slight disappointment. It is hard to enjoy a gloomy, downbeat record when looking over the sparkling sea and enjoying some great cheese. It is worth saying that the artwork is superb however, looking like a cross between a propaganda poster and a Penguin classic cover.

Chloe's album rating: 4
Chloe's favourite track: 2. She's Leaving 
Olly's album rating: 5
Olly's favourite track: 15.

Next week is 934. A Little Deeper by Ms Dynamite.