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With dissension in the ranks and the eventual loss of a member it's no surprise The Rapture's latest offering 'In The Grace of Your Love' was turned out a good 5 years after their previous critically acclaimed release 'Pieces of the People We Love'. Frontman Luke Jenner took time out from the band in 2009 due to personal issues - many of which themes are present on the album - and rumored creative differences with bassist Mattie Safer who eventually left the band altogether. But we all know tumultuous times often produce the most inspired works, and with the help of Phoenix producer/Cassius member Phillipe Zdar The Rapture have turned their respective frowns upside down.
The album plays host to an astounding cross section of genres - from their usual electro-pop sound to indie rock to 80's disco (no doubt stemming from Zdar) to gospel, reggae and afro-beat. This is an obvious testament to the talents of the band and is put across with a good line of continuity. There is an ever-present dark and moody underlay throughout which may stem from the loss of Jenner's Mother to suicide in 2009 as well as the loss of a band member, but coupled with the at first slightly odd but eventually obviously essential 80's-esque dance and disco overtones, the album generates an impressive bass-laden, all-encompassing sound.
Each song is an epic musical exploration within itself but there are some true stand out tracks. 'Come Back To Me' is a fantastically simple dance number that turns from a jaunty island romp reminiscent of Boney M into a deep dark house track without skipping a beat. Title track 'In the Grace of Your Love' transports us back to the 80's with it's classic synth backdrop but keeps us at the modern forefront with it's brooding bass line, indie rock riffs and cymbal smashing drum fills. 'How Deep Is Your Love' hooks with it's dramatic piano from the get go and keeps you going with it's fantastic fuzz baseline and funky, almost tribal percussion effects. Closing out with 'It Takes Time to be A Man' ends the album on a definite high note with it's sexy bluesy tone and slow smooth tempo.
A fine piece of work from a fine NYC outfit. It's very clear that, even with familial loves lost and creative ties severed, this band will never have anywhere to go but up.
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