Nothing to do with the film about the Marquis de Sade starring Kate Winslet, Quills is in fact a rather intriguing musical project that's anything but brutal or violent. The tracks here on this genre-defying six-track EP (cut back from what was an album-length release) don't assault the listener with an extreme aural assault or even a barrage of choruses and hooks. And yet, 'The Spirit Level' is a curiously affecting collection of songs, understated yet touching.
Instead, the layers build, ebb and flow and slowly creep under your skin. 'The Spirit Level' is all about careful arrangements that serve to create maximum atmosphere and subtly emotive lyrics delivered in a manner that draws he listener in. The narrative of 'The Industry Standard' is darkly compelling, and contrasts with the laid-back melody. The details and subtle contrasts are what really make 'The Spirit Level.' There's a sparse and distant semi-ambient passage at the start of 'The Results' that is nothing like the relatively upbeat song that follows - which again contrasts with the haunting 'Statues.' 'An Experiment' has a sombre, doleful pace. Its effect is almost subliminal - as, indeed, is the album as a whole. Magnificently crafted, 'The Spirit Level' is a truly outstanding work of rare quality.
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