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Tranquility Base Hotel and Casino turns 2 today so here's why it's my favourite album:
It's literally an album about a fictional hotel on the moon....need I say more....(I will)
The writing draws heavily on science fiction and, in describing a fictional place, far away from earth, it in fact acts as a microcosm for modern society and the problems it faces.
This creates an album which is both dreamlike while providing social commentary in a very seamless and subtle way.
The tracklist is flawless, there is not a single skip and each song leads on from the last beautifully and creates a linear narrative throughout the album.
There is the perfect balance of continuity and contrast in the songs. the album is made to be listened to in its entirety and each song adds the bigger picture of the album. As alex turner said, it's a collection of short stories and each song is a different chapter.
Lyrically you can see alex has grown so much since AM, weaving a fluid narrative from extended metaphors and intense imagery. The lyrics paint such a clear picture of the world we're living in, as well as Alex's own perception of it.
Although this album is a departure from the guitar heavy anthems that they have become known for, the guitar parts, though more subtle, play an integral role and glue the songs together.
The general production and instrumentation is flawless. All of it so smooth and the transitions are heavenly. The layering and combination of instruments serves to further the dreamlike mood as it invites you on 40 minute trip, all with a harsh view of the flaws of modern society
A final point on the aesthetics, let's take a minute to appreciate the overall design? From the cover art, and the fact that Alex built the model himself, to the incredible tour posters and finally, tbhc has given us am's best music videos yet (if only there were more...)
The result is an incredible concept album that whether you hate or love, you must admit it is skillfully executed. An album which is both in contrast and the culminationof all their previous work. It may not be their most timeless or iconic but it will always be their most honest
