There is one obvious word which comes to mind when summarising Metronomy’s seventh studio album: pastel. Perfectly inoffensive, perfectly enjoyable, but lacking the spark prevalent on earlier records. They have played it a bit too safe for Small World to be truly memorable.
Of course, this isn’t to say that the album doesn’t have its strengths. Most notably, it is very cohesive as an overall piece – it’s a collection of songs which fit very well together, and the circuit of the album is another of its best aspects. Starting with the macabre tones of ‘Life and Death’ (‘It was fun, what I did/Got a job, had some kids/See you in the abyss‘), a more upbeat, catchy and positive style is embraced on the following seven songs before a return to the style of the slightly depressing, slightly existential opener on final track ‘I have seen enough’ (‘I will sit with you in silence/As we watch our favourite show/But I have seen enough‘). This gives the record a satisfying sense of being well rounded and finished, with no loose ends.
However, the drawback of Small World‘s cohesiveness is that there is no real stand out track; all the songs are very much of one standard. A record needs something to grab your attention – unless it is exceptional throughout – this was the task ‘The Look’ on Metronomy’s 2011 masterpiece The English Riviera. The strongest contender for this title would be ‘Love Factory’ – it’s a fun and catchy hook, but lacks depth, a downfall also seen on should-be moving slow burner ‘Life and Death’. The absence of this important powerhouse song means Small World disintegrates into a somewhat repetitive collection of slightly generic songs.
It’s this generic trait which is perhaps most disappointing. Metronomy have previously had a distinctive and slightly quirky sound, moderately rough round the edges, perfectly exemplified on 2019’s Metronomy Forever. Their evolution towards a softer, almost indie pop, style has cost them this. They are still recognisable, but not remarkable. Nevertheless, one may argue that their latest effort is more listenable. The songs are sweeter and more relaxed; it’s enjoyable and has captured a warm, reflective, end of summer-esque feel.
Small World is pleasant. When looked at objectively as its own record, it’s very solid. While it shows definite signs of something with the potential to be more engaging, the evolution from Metronomy’s quintessential sound and the lack of standout song is what has given it a lower rating.
Rating: 3/5
