Delirious?' new album Touch is a collection of songs taken mostly from its latest UK release Audio Lessonover? Some are altered; a majority aren't--but overall, this collection gives an excellent taste of the band's expanding talent.
This project begins with the title song, "Touch," a heavier version compared to the original (from one of the Deeper E.P.s). The original is bouncier and has more of a pop feel; this formula adds more hard/gritty guitars--and the vocals seem to have a bit more edge as well. But overall, this version is a fine way to start off the album. It's one of the catchiest songs (thanks to its amazing chorus with fabulous vocals and instruments), hooking the listener! The remaining songs after the title track are originally from Audio Lessonover?
"Love is the Compass" is slightly altered, adding a bit more guitar work and further changes in vocals and the bridge (different guitar work, vocal range, etc.). The vocals on this track are fantastic as they show Martin Smith's dynamic range. This version takes on a slower tempo than the original... but is superb nonetheless.
Another remixed song is "Waiting for the Summer" (the opener for Audio Lessonover?). The band has deleted most of the background vocals, and that change takes away from the song's pop sound. I admit I prefer the original version because there was more going on with it--as opposed to the Touch version, with heavier guitar work where the background vocals originally were--however, this song is still wonderful. It reminds me a bit more of their older work; it has a good beat, outstanding vocals, and basically, is a foot-tapper for the audience!
Delirious? begins the progressive side of the album with songs like "Fire," "Alien" and "Rollercoaster." "Fire" starts with heavy and slightly distorted guitar work--a heavier sound compared to all other Delirious? work. Though louder, the catchy work of the band is still present in the chorus (especially when the band sings the first part--"I, I, I believe, that the fire is here today..."), and this song again shows Smith's powerful vocals, as he gets pretty intense with the lyrics at the end. "Alien" continues with the "different" Delirious? sound as it seems to become slightly more experimental as in the past. This song is actually quite hard to describe... it's calm, yet it has an edge and a harrowing feel to it at moments. Think Radiohead: melodic and beautifully sung; but it has a (pun intended) cutting edge and creative instrumentation.
"Rollercoaster" features more experimentalism: distorted instruments (even the drums and keys sound distorted at times), an interesting bridge with flutes, etc., which bring in a completely different, almost eccentric, sound for the band. The lyrics are moderately more strained in parts, which add definite character. They are probably the most different, in terms of their progressive sound, but by no means does it render bad results. Each of them adds specific personality to the band and proves that Delirious? has talent to expand and grow--and are extremely good at it, no matter the direction the band pursues!
"Angel in Disguise" is a personal favorite from Audio Lessonover?; and thankfully it hasn't been changed for Touch. It features lovely piano; striking vocals (enhancing the beautiful lyrics) and a relaxing tone. On the flip side of that idea is "Show Me Heaven"--another of the most interesting tunes on the album. The chorus (where the band simply sings, "show me heaven" a few times) is, though simple, the most captivating part. It reminds me, vocally, of U2's "Elevation"; and instrumentally it has some great guitar licks. It's not "poppy catchy," but catchy nonetheless.
"Take Me Away" is another pleasing song with more pop roots, specifically compared to the rest of the collection. It has a faster tempo and bouncier beat; it's simply a fun song.
The closer, "Stealing Time," is very slow and quite mellow as it tones down most instrumental focus, using mainly a computerized-sounding keyboard (I'm not actually sure what that is), and muted drumming in the background as its focus. There are other instruments, but they are by no means the main focus of the song. If anything, Martin's vocals are the focus, and again they enhance his abilities in range and power. "Stealing Time" is a fine closing song, as it winds down all the sounds; and as I mentioned, it is quite relaxing.
Touch is, overall, one of my absolute favorite Delirious? albums. With such a variety of sounds mixed in, from pop to rock to the more progressive sounds, it all shows the band's incredible musical abilities and talent. I very highly recommend this album to each and every Delirious? fan. It is a must-have for anyone's collection!
5 tocks
Other coverage for this album
The Rebel Base 2002Reviewed by David MartinDon't you hate it when bands in the UK release an album and their record companies make American audiences wait a few months to get their hands on it? Well, Christian rock band Delirious? has taken that frustration to a new level. Let me recap for you. In the summer of 2001, Delirious? put out their latest studio album, Audio: Lessonover, which was met with lukewarm reviews, likely due to its…The Phantom Tollbooth 2002Reviewed by Greg AdamsGifted bands that can crank out consistently stellar music are rarer than an albino squirrel. Yeah, they're out there, but how often can you point one out to a friend and have them see it too? Delirious? is one of those few brilliant bands that has ever-so steadily opened the fuel valve to continually intensify their seemingly eternal flame. With Touch, Delirious? digs a little Deeper to add some…The Phantom Tollbooth 2002Reviewed by Rick ChromeyAnd Delirious should know a little about touching the eternal. Their music has completely changed worship within the Church. Their songs have become standards in the arena of contemporary praise. They have a rich legacy of creating communion with the Creator. I could sing of my appreciation...well,...forever. Touch is simply another step in the evolution of Delirious?. To be honest, few, if any,…Similar sounding releases
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