A compelling, eclectic effort, ‘Changes’ is quite a crucial album in And The Broken’s short yet intense history. Collecting two years’ worth of material (previously released on a few EPs), the record could very well be closing a chapter for the Swedish group, or opening one, as they say goodbye to their past selves and look boldly to the future. Whichever way you look at it, there’s no doubt that a friendly, heartwarming and accessible record such as ‘Changes’ is a joy to listen to.
The album doesn’t seek to reinvent the wheel. Finding refuge in indie-folk poignancy with elegant hints of quaint rock’n’roll, ‘Changes’ moves at a rather slow pace, oscillating between dreamy, soothing pieces and gloomier, cinematic bits. And The Broken appear comfortable in both settings, with lead singer Tobias Borelius lending his jagged, introspective vocal tone to the cause. ‘Rust’ is a good example of how the Malmö-based outfit doesn’t refrain from embracing a melancholic cinematic flair, both elegant and nostalgic.
However, episodes such as ‘Polaroid’ or ‘Modern World’ showcase And The Broken’s uplifting, fierce side, unfurling a varied, diverse listening experience. It feels like an emotional roller coaster at times, yet one that never leaves us hanging – it goes straight to the point. Mixed by Andreas Ejnarsson and Linus Lindvall, ‘Changes’ is an impressive offering.
Recommended! Discover ‘Changes’ on Spotify:
