Different Colours

Marconi Union's new album, 'Different Colours', their sixth, is the first to prominently feature the work of pianist Duncan Meadows, who joined the group initially for live duties and was asked into the fold more permanently in 2010. Playful and brighter, 'Different Colours' is aptly named and finds Marconi Union shifting the focus from cool introspection to a friendlier, dynamic sound pierced in places by electric guitar and hushed vocals. Whether Duncan initiated this fresher outlook or not, on 'Different Colours' Marconi Union have a certain swagger - and it suits them. Though the crumpled qualities of Marconi Union have been smoothed out to a degree by the addition of Duncan on 'Different Colours', the lasting impression is still one of exquisite world-weariness.