No.83 - ‘Bad Blood’ by Bastille (2013)

“Standing on the cliff face, highest fall you'll ever grace; It scares me half to death; Look out to the future, but it tells you nothing; So take another breath…”

Who’d of thought there would be two FIFA game references in this album countdown? Well back in 2013, the soundtrack gave my ears the joy of hearing ‘The Weight Of Living Part ii’. It wasn’t until more recently, through consistent radio play that Bastille became one of my favourite modern indie rock/pop bands.

In a similar way to the Hoosiers’ stand out songs, as mentioned in my blog a few days back, Bastille shine through the Indie fog with their unique style. Three things I love about Bastille: The pounding drums that make you feel like you’re in the middle of an epic adventure movie, the strong choiresque harmonies and, above all, Dan Smith’s sublime lead vocals.

They love to tell stories, of history, life and mythicality. The melodies are beautiful; the tone of voice is like honey for the ears. Incredibly well written songs, and very memorable. I favour more the songs with the piano lead, over those with the synth (writing in my first blog, I mention my favourable attention to piano in rock music). But when the primary aspects of the album are considered, this is only a secondary observation and one that doesnt change how glorious these songs are.

Bastille formed in 2010, London. Bad Blood was their debut album and landed right in the No.1 spot in the UK album charts, as well as charting in numerous other countries. It was nominated for Best Album at the 2014 brit awards. It actually didn’t receive incredibly favourable reviews…not surprising as there is no-one to compare it, and the British Indie mist remained in the eyes of the reviewers (in my honest opinion!). It is available on vinyl. I’m personally on the lookout for the hard to find red vinyl.

Favourite songs -  Icarus, Bad Blood, Pompeii