British songstress Beth Orton makes her long-awaited return on fifth album Sugaring Season. Her first album in six years is a rich, emotional offering that continues her departure from the electronic textures that formerly defined her work. Accomplished musicians add musical depth and sophistication to the album’s sombre tones and Orton’s fragile but determined voice. Delicate string arrangements and piano accompany guitar, bass and drums to create a gloomy folk sound – the perfect backdrop for Orton’s versatile vocals and ghostly melodies. The songwriting covers ample ground while largely staying within the alt-folk realm. The wonderful ‘Candles’ has a woozy, jazzy flavour and soulful vocals. The jaunty, old-school charm of ‘See through Blue’ is an interesting detour from the darker, downbeat vibe of the album. But the hauntingly beautiful ‘Poison Tree’ is a better indication of what listeners can expect, with its eerie vocal melodies, sparse instrumentation and delightful harmonies. Sugaring Season is the perfect wrap-up to a chilly winter although its brooding melodies will likely stick around for much longer.
Anti
3.5/5
Reviewer: Luke Saunders