I AM KEEN ON KEANE.

Originally Posted: Sunday, August 30, 2009 at 10:49pm

So, I decided, after much consideration... that Perfect Symmetry is a good album.

For those of you who are unfamiliar with the band Keane. The great thing about them is that every time they come out with an album it is so different and diverse than the last, but always a step ahead of the trend set curve. Usually knocking many other bands off any pedestal they were on. At least, in my opinion.

Their first full length album, Hopes and Fears, was a new wave-y, electronic, piano pop album. Every song on it is great. When I listen to it, I find myself anticipating the next song as I enjoy the current one. Savoring the music, yet counting down to what will come after. And when the next song plays, it continues the theme of that first song that started the album off.

Their second album, Under The Iron Sea; may I add, has one of the coolest covers I've ever seen, is like audible artwork. This is truly a concept album. Written with beautiful craftsmanship, I can not take my ears away from the magnificence of this album. I heard a rumor, that when writing the album, they would think of their greatest fears, tapping into the deepest part of the emotional spectrum, and then write a song about it. This album contains one of my all time favorite songs called, 'Atlantic'. And is quite possibly one of my favorite albums of all time, continuing with their above the curve, shattering the norm tendencies. Once again with catchier beats, if-possible more melodic melodies, and more experimental ambient noises. This is the best album, again, in my opinion, they have produced.

Which is why I was expecting them to blow it away with Perfect Symmetry. Their third album was not what I was expecting. But I've not judged quickly or harshly, leaving time and an open mind to let it sink in. It has been since October 14th, 2008 that this came out, almost a year. And I have decided in the past week that I do, in fact, enjoy this album and that it is a good follow up to 'Under the Iron Sea.' They again, up the anti, making something new and sharp, cutting down a lot of what is considered popular trend set music. But still adopting the eighties throwback feel that IS so popular nowadays. The song selection is still conceptual with the lyrics ranging from light-hearted to also much darker tones than they have ever attempted before. The album is bold, and sustains the life Keane has built, so they can stride down the path they so elegantly set before themselves.

Surprisingly, Keane is not my favorite band. They are one of them, but they are still worth writing about. :) I hope to see them live someday. And I anxiously look forward to their fourth long play album!