Music review: Elbow - The Seldom Seen Kid

This band have been around for a while; since 1991, in fact. In that time they always seem to have skirted the edge of the public’s consciousness.

Their biggest breakthrough came in 2001 with Mercury- and Brit- nominated album Asleep in the Back, but still they missed out on the big prizes.

They deserve a place on the rostrum, seeing as they are every bit as good – if not better – than the Keanes and Coldplays of this world, with whom they share a liking for contemplative ballads and soaring anthems. “Mirrorball” and “Weather to Fly” are two of the quieter offerings, with the latter feeling particularly appropriate for a summer afternoon lazing in the garden.

“One Day Like This” – as well as being the best track on the album – builds to a fantastic crescendo over the course of an indulgent but justified seven minutes. Catchy melodies are also in evidence on “Grounds for Divorce” and “The Bones of You”, though in truth all 11 tracks offer compelling reasons to make room for Elbow.

• The Seldom Seen Kid is out NOW