Search - Malcolm Middleton :: In the Woods

Flawless

Jasper Mcworthy | USA | 01/13/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Middleton is at the top of his songwriting and guitar form here, each track is a complete wonder. He goes so gracefully over so many burnt feelings and out of place understanding. Completely unrelenting. Driving through the bull of trying to be what everyone expects of you. It's not natural to exist and make others know you to exist musically and that's it. Malcolm Middleton is a co founder and member of Arab Strap, truly one of my all time favourites. Here he takes a break to do most of the singing, even though his partner plays drums occasionally, it's a good album. "No Modest Bear" bumps the party, and when you get to the end of the album it leaves you so complete."

Do you love happy endings?

V in NC | Durham, NC United States | 07/17/2006

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Do you collect Precious Moment's Figurines? Do you prefer your movies colorized? Do you like brand new, shiny packages with big bows?

If the above statements sound like you, you should turn around and walk away.

Malcolm Middleton might be a therapist's dream patient. His songs reflect low self-esteem, self-hatred, and completely bafflement that someone, somewhere might possibly like him.

He's also an amazing musician and songwriter by any standards. He's derivative of nothing. When I listen to this CD I just get the feeling the music he makes comes from within, completely. Like a savant found in someone's attic who has been making beautiful music because he's compelled not because some band down the street impressed him.

This CD is less stark than the first. There are layers of swirling guitar, strings, and beats. Great backing vocals.

Lovely music. Sad, plaintive lyrics."

A Future Classic

D. Corrigan | Oz | 09/07/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I LOVE this album! Being Scottish I'm obviously a tad biased but in my defence I'd say that this album is not the kind of music I'd normally listen to or buy. Having said that I picked it up last year having read a favourable review somewhere which tweaked my curiosity. Every track is unique and memorable, the thing that gets me is the maturity and lyricism of the music, sure Malcolm's lyrics are fantastically dour and deeply self-deprecating, clever and moving but the layers of compexity, the suprises at every turn and the breathtaking beauty that underpins the album never wear thin or outstay their welcome. It's a great drinking, sing-along, heartfelt beast of a thing and I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who has a heart, a wry sense of humour and an adventurous musical ear. Five big fat, steak McCoy's stars."