The last time we checked on The Leisure Society was in 2009, when the British group were excelling at a blend of chamber-pop and folk. “Love’s Enormous Wings” still gets plenty of love from me; it’s a ukulele-led ballad that shows the best of Nick Hemming’s frailly ethereal voice and sweeping melodic capabilities. Several years later it appears The Leisure Society have further expanded their folk sound with stirring emotional heights. New track “The Sober Scent of Paper” relies on a hushed and melancholic acoustical trickle with relatively heavy Simon & Garfunkel vibes. The guitar-based minimalism is initially present, as it was on “Love’s Enormous Wings”, but lavish orchestral additions emerge throughout — especially during the chilling woodwind-accompanied chorus. It’s a darker, more mature showing from a group that really wowed me a few years ago. With upcoming album Alone Aboard The Ark, I expect more of the same. Inspired by poet Sylvia Plath, Alone Aboard The Ark will be released April 1st on Full Time Hobby. Check out the album trailer below:
