Our early reviews are threadbare to say the least. In the spirit of remembering where we came from, we've left them as they were.

22.02.02015

Last modified 22.05.02021

Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire) The Kinks

Album review by André Dack, Frederick O'Brien, and Andrew Bridge

André

An enjoyable album, one that is incredibly easy to consume. The vocal harmonies are a joy to listen to. Whilst nothing particularly stands out, I’ll definitely revisit Arthur for the pure pleasure.

7 out of 10

Favourite tracks // Victoria ­Yes Sir No Sir ­Shangri-La

Fred

It’s a funny old album, Arthur. A good deal of the songs are beautiful in ways only Ray Davies can achieve, but the album’s scattered feel keeps it from being more than the sum of its parts. That’s a minor qualm, though. The lyrics and melodies are graceful and lovely, and the instrumentation supports them with aplomb. It’s all very Kinks-y, in that the main takeaway is ultimately, ‘Well, that sure was a pleasant listen!’ Sometimes that’s all you need.

8 out of 10

Favourite tracks // Some Mother’s Son Australia Yes Sir No Sir

Andrew

Some interesting melodies and instruments choices, I especially appreciate the horns all over it, and the harmonies are really nice in some tracks.

8 out of 10

Favourite tracks // Australia Shangri-La Drivin’