My first Belle and Sebastian album was a download from a service called eMusic (I think) and the album was The Life Pursuit, which remains a favourite. Now I am physical copies of six of their albums, five of them on vinyl.
I would describe them as breezy pop, but in this day and age you could just find a song of their on YouTube and make up your own mind. Or, if you are more musically minded, you might enjoy this terrific write up on All Music. I saw that they were playing in Melbourne so I booked us some tickets.
Nicky and I went on Friday night and it was an absolute treat. While their music is melodic more than anything on the records, it had more energy and kick in person. They have three singers: Stuart Murdoch, Sarah Martin, and Stevie Jackson and they each have their own vibe. In spite of this, many songs have main parts for at two of them. I particularly enjoyed Murdoch, who sang on the bulk of the song. He projects and joy and energy that is amazing.
I don’t remember all the songs that they played but here are some of them.
- Dress up in you
- To be myself completely
- Will I tell you a secret
- So in the moment
- Talk to me, talk to me
- Piazza, New York catcher
- Stay loose
- Unnecessary drama
- Stars of track and field
- My wandering days are over, and
- The boy with the Arap strap
Addendum: Here is the complete list.
The crowd was enthusastic for the whole set, but everyone lost their minds for Boy With the Arab Strap, as well they should. I’m really glad we went and this was easily in the top five concerts I have been to.