Belle and Sebastian - Write About Love

Fifteen years after Scottish indie darlings Belle and Sebastian began recording their first sessions in Glasgow, frontman/creative force Stuart Murdoch and his twee band return with Write About Love (October 12, Matador), a fresh and buoyant new collection of swooning art-pop. Much has changed in the world since the mid-90's but B+S's uniquely compelling mellowness still offers subtle melodic delights, a mature and timeless approach that marries retro pop jangle to velvety, cinematic string arrangements. Write is also an ideal successor to Murdoch's '09 offshoot film and music project God Help the Girl, expanding upon the classic 60's and 70's pop backdrops with a steady hand and knowing wink.

Murdoch and crew don't cross many stylistic borders this time around, content to ply the craft they've mastered. Many tracks hark back to the patented Belle and Sebastian sound of their early years but there's a greater expansive sound afoot thanks in part to producer Tony Hoffer's way with making the most tender melody ring with a brisk stride, most notably in the British Invasion echoes that permeate the bell-bottomed title track featuring rising film star Carey Mulligan. Sure the stylistic references are worn none-too-lightly but there's palpable affection at work (and play) that's both sunny and transcendent. How could anyone resist the sharp folk-pop charms of "I Didn't See It Coming" or the moody, engaging "Little Lou, Ugly Jack, Prophet John" (featuring a sultry-as-usual Norah Jones)? Write About Love may tantalize the sweet tooth but this is no empty calorie treat. Indulge. Fine, lengthy EPK (with live performances) after the jump.

Artist Site

Belle and Sebastian - "I Didn't See It Coming" (from the album Write About Love)

Belle and Sebastian - "Write About Love" (from the album Write About Love)