For a decade, Australia's The Church have been providing the world with their compelling hybrid pop sounds. On this, their seventh album (with nine solo albums between the three principal members Steve Kilbey, Marty Willson-Piper and Peter Koppes), they expand on the dreamy surrealism that they built a reputation around, adding a bit more snap to the airy nature of 1988's Starfish. Gold Afternoon Fix, a stock market term for setting gold prices, shows the band at its most cohesive; their side projects have not had any negative effect on the band's unity. Kilbey, the bassist and main vocalist, offers his imaginative vision as the chief lyricist, emitting his words with a soft-spoken easiness that flawlessly combines with the collective musical contributions to create an unequaled aura and foresight. Their uncanny ability to create a subtle hook (especially on the lead single "Metropolis") gives The Church all the more power. Other Fix-ations: "Terra Nova Cain," "Pharoah," "Grind" and "Essence."

Save This Page

Digg This!