Sometimes a non-power pop album really gets my attention, and surprise – it’s from a major label here. I never really knew who Ed Harcourt was, although he did advertise this album on “Adult Swim” last month. Hailing from Sussex, England his style is a piano based modern alternative rock. Ed Harcourt could be described as the UK’s answer to Rufus Wainwright; a talented singer/songwriter who tends to be the critic’s darling, yet has always lacked the attention of the mainstream. This album is an amazing find and should break him into the publics view, with mini-operatic melodies, like the sprawling “You Only Call Me When You’re Drunk” and the heartbreaking croon of “Late Night Partner.” The bombastic “Revolution In The Heart” is where the styles of U2 and Coldplay meet in the middle. So dark and tortured, if you love The Eels and Mark Oliver Everett, this album is a no-brainer. It remains his “poppiest” album from what I’ve read, and I guess that’s why I was so impressed. Now I will look at his back catalog… but this is a great place to jump on the bandwagon.
Harcourt’s “Visit from the Dead Dog” video is catchy and charming.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oqTjYZHNtMg