Finally gave a listen today to the new Zero 7 effort, "The Garden", and I'm kinda shocked at how much I like it. I've typically been a big detractor of theirs, as I tend to hear either a) forced pop lacking emotional weight or b) bad Air wannabe-ness, but there's more to them this time around. They've found their groove.The album has a number of divergent sounds, which keeps it interesting; but throughout there is a cohesive mood: one of relaxed yet confident retro-groovyness. These may not be the best written songs in history, but the sonic landscapes and melodies are continually interesting and unexpected, and the vocalists shine. Sia's contribution is mature in a way that her solo efforts are not, and Jose Gonzalez is, simply stated, fantastic. His verses are clean and effortlessly powerful, and he sings beautiful harmonies with himself - at times reminiscent of Simon & Garfunkel, and at others of the Beach Boys.
Producer Nigel Godrich can probably be thanked for nudging everyone up to their A-game. Having worked recently with Radiohead, McCartney and Beck can surely not hurt, and you can't help but wonder what magic he pulled in-studio.
Looking forward to getting some good mileage outta this album this summer.
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