“Nothing,” a muddy sounding rock tempo track, leads us towards the cynical “Our Bastard Child.” This, along with the easy harmonies of “Lie To Me” and the hook riddled “Some Day” underline the duo’s songwriting strengths perfectly.
The subtle smoothness of “It’s Not For Love” has the faintest splash of soul hidden within its textures. “Amsterdam” is a real life account of a fateful visit to the sin city of Europe. “When The Monsters Come Out” stretches beyond its three minute predecessors with a cleverly building song that ends with an impressive guitar solo.
“Earth Above, Sky Below” is an absolute gem amongst gems. It was apparently recorded in a thunder storm. You can’t hear the storm but, weirdly, you can feel its ominous presence. Wasn't it The Grateful Dead that wanted to record thick air? Well this is very close indeed. It’s delicate and yet oddly oppressive.
Next up is the powerful “Diary Of A Stalker.” This is a disturbing look into the mind of a dangerous obsessive. The lyrics are chilling and you can almost visualize the man peering through the girl’s private window. You feel like you are watching the watcher. “All In” is another highly satisfying song that leads to “Beginning Of The End,” a track that basks in the spirit of Dire Straits.
This Is Secret Circus ends with the gentle blues of “New Orleans” which, if you obey those subliminal messages and keep the album running, reveals a hidden track, “Outside Looking In.” The secret is well and truly out. There is a smooth natural flow to their songwriting, that gets under your skin in an easy subtle way ensuring that the word will spread quickly.
Secret Circus may not rule the world just yet, but they have certainly invaded this house.
Follow the links above to enter the world of the Secret Circus and to hear some of those samples.
Article comments
1 - J
That's a great review! Funny stuff!