Crosby, Stills & Nash, Eagles, Hall & Oates, Wings, Supertramp, Elton John: 33 years after the founding of the former boy band Take That, which Gary Barlow absolutely (and rightly!) wants to be understood as a “vocal harmony group”, So these should be the inspiring references of their ninth studio record. Except for the sky-high single “Windows”, which actually has a real CSN vibe, this is a bit exaggerated. What is remarkable, however, is how well Take That have not only aged, but have also continuously matured musically.
This is about much more than just playlist conquest and stadium compatibility
Their storm-proof foundation consists of both nostalgic fans and consistently solid songwriting. And this doesn’t just come from Gary Barlow, as one would initially expect, who has already been awarded the prestigious English composer’s prize Ivor Novello Award six times. Howard Donald and especially Mark Owen (particularly nice: “The Champion” and “Time And Time Again”) also prove to be adept song architects, even if external help was deemed necessary here and there.
The main songwriter always does the lead vocals. It speaks for the musical quality of Take That that you can generously ignore lines like “You are the reason that I’m holding on/ You’re my number one”. “This Life” tells of the challenges and pitfalls of life, from which one is not immune, even with six UK number one albums. An empathetic mantra of encouragement in a minor key opens the series of songs: “So keep your head up/ Your wings wide/ Find fire/ That keeps your soul alive.”
The fact that Take That have chosen an opening piece that is not at all radio-friendly shows that this is about much more than just conquering playlists and stadium compatibility. The head voice is nurtured and cared for in the old Take That tradition, the melodies are smooth like an Angora rabbit. “Days I Hate Myself” surprises with an indie flair that is reminiscent of the beginnings of a certain ex-member’s solo career. Take this, Robbie!
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