Blood Like Lemonade

An event not to be ignored

Two talented brothers Godfrey formed Morcheeba back in the mid 1990s, and since then various performers have sung in it, but the brothers have managed to create a stylish and recognizable sound from the very beginning. The story of Morcheeba started from the Godfrey brothers meeting the vocalist Skye Edwards, their tandem was practically flawless; it was then when the hits The Sea and Rome Wasn’t Built In A Day were released and the trio got a huge fan base on both sides of the Atlantic. The album Charango was released in 2002 as well as the single Otherwise which is still very popular today. Soon after that Edwards left the band, and different vocalists would sing with Morcheeba in the years to follow. On the whole the musicians have managed to preserve their reputation, there appeared more of variety in the general slant of their pieces, they mixed the musical genres successfully and released quite successful albums. Yet something was missing in those works, and this year makes it clear what exactly – Skye’s vocals. The seventh album Blood Like Lemonade marks her returning to working with Morcheeba, and this even is simply not to be ignored.

The songs on Blood Like Lemonade can be by no means called non-contemporary

Whenever we hear Morcheeba stylish arrangements and harmonizing vocals always come to mind as well as contagious rhythms, guitars, flutes and electronic effects. All of it is present on Blood Like Lemonade, especially the longed for voice of Skye Edwards making this record really special. Three quarters of an hour of stylish music caressing the ear with enough of emotions will pass at a breath. Most of the compositions remind of Morcheeba’s best works on the turn of the century although they can be by no means called non-contemporary. One can make sure of that already on the first track Crimson: light as the air it conquers with its memorable tune and Skye’s mesmerizing vocals who sings in a more soulful and sensual way. The title song is remarkable for a more expressive rhythm and unobtrusive vocals, whereas a bit harmonica and male voice samples appear on a tenser Mandala. Acoustic guitar on the slow and peaceful track I Am The Spring underlines well the singer’s gentle voice, and Recipe For Disaster with smooth rock elements can easily become Morcheeba’s new hit due to the vivid chorus and a catchy riff. Another highlight is Self Made Man; the philosophic lyrics and a splendid guitar and percussion arrangement enrich this initially great tune. The album closes on a slightly tense note Beat Of The Drum on which rock and trip-hop are joined on an almost solemn chorus.

A tasteful and juicy fruit of Morcheeba’s reunion

It is always nice to learn that old ties are restored – wise men advise not to burn bridges behind you, and it is good advice, because future can bring a great deal of surprises, both pleasant and not very so. Of course, the Godfrey brothers’ talent has helped them to find unusual and brilliant vocalists to work with Morcheeba, but most of the fans had been missing the charm of their early albums. Skye Edwards has been pursuing a solo career in the last eight years and has probably decided that performing the Morcheeba songs was one of the best things she did in life, which brought to life the album Blood Like Lemonade. As before here we find trip-hop meeting the elements of rock, soul, electronic and pop music swinging the listeners on soft sonic waves. This year the band goes on tour supporting the new record which is also going to remind of how the British collective’s path began. Thus the seventh creation is will not only please Morcheeba’s old fans but is also the best choice to get acquainted with its creative work. Hopefully the team’s reunion will bear more than one fruit as tasteful and juicy as Blood Like Lemonade is.