Lamb’s last album, WHAT SOUND, was a beauty and ended up high on our list of albums of the year. I believe it also provided the duo with a stronger and original musical identity, something many acts fail to achieve. Lamb’s musical history is one that can be best described as consistently progressive. So when the new album, BETWEEN DARKNESS AND WONDER, arrived a few days ago, I wondered if they could go one step further again. I think they have.

With opening song, Darkness, it’s clear to me that the new album builds on the magical foundations set by WHAT SOUND. There’s a strong atmospheric feel created by electronics and conventional instruments, with a lovely narrative Lou Rhodes vocal weaving in and out of the intergalactic soundtrack. It’s a stunning introduction to the album. Next song, Stronger, is a slow-paced creation with a hypnotic ambience, riveting melody and cleverly placed backing vocals. The pace picks up with the sharp percussive tones of Sugar. This has a bluesy vibe, Latin beat and a more detached, totally appropriate Rhodes vocal. Next track Angelica is a beautifully arranged beat-laden instrumental woven around Debussy’s Claire de Lune - four songs, four flavours. Then comes my highlight of this wonderful album and, arguably, song of the year. Clouds Clear opens with a quietly plucked guitar, and subtle percussion before a mega-expressive Rhodes vocal makes its entry. The song rises and falls like waves crashing on sand, with a Rhodes voice that soars and dives in unison. It’s a magical vocal performance and a ballad that oozes emotion. Superb. Wonder is a gently floating pop song with another supreme melody, gorgeous vocal harmonies, and another superb instrumental arrangement. I reckon this could be a Christmas single with its optimistic ambience, and almost child-like vocal.

BETWEEN DARKNESS AND WONDER is a clever album because it mixes pace and mood while managing to remain a cohesive piece of work. It is also a very beautiful and moving album due in large part to great song writing, superb production and Lou Rhodes’ very special vocal contribution. Without any doubt this is Lamb’s best album and the launch pad needed to begin the band’s conquest of the USA. It’s also one of the best albums of 2003 and essential.

5/5