Manchester Orchestra’s latest album, “I’m Like a Virgin Losing a Child,” is a must-have for all fans of indie-rock. Manchester Orchestra is not what the name implies. The band, a quintet from Atlanta, Georgia, is composed of guys averaging 19 years old. And they are not an orchestra, nor are they from the northwest region of England. Although the name suggests otherwise, the album captures Manchester Orchestra’s true sound perfectly.
“I’m Like a Virgin Losing a Child” opens with “Wolves at Night,” which begins with powerful drumbeats, sinister funeral organ, impressive vocals, and even more impressive lyrics. These sounds blend together to form a perfect opener with a catchy chorus.
This album provides both amazing music and powerful lyrics. The most moving song is “Where Have You Been?” The pounding drums, the harmonious choir, and deep lyrics all combine flawlessly to capture the listener and push the song forward. It ends with the moving and thought-provoking question for which the song was named.
Another meritorious track is “Alice and Interiors.” The deconstructed guitar parts add a slight indie pop sound and merge with the vocals to create a song that would excite any fan of the Philadelphia-based indie rock band mewithoutYou.
The album ends with “Colly Strings,” which wraps up with the line “You can’t believe without bleeding,” which singer Andy Hull says is the perfect conclusion. You can’t understand life without having to fall and fail.
For fans of Neutral Milk Hotel and Death Cab for Cutie, Manchester Orchestra is definitely a band to watch. You can check them out at www.themanchesterorchestra.com, subscribe to their hilarious podcasts on iTunes, or view them on YouTube.