Present Tense

I discovered Wild Beasts and this album during a late night cruise of Amazon, listening to bands I didn't know whose albums were being recommended based on bands that I liked. Once in a while, I discover a good album that way... but this time, I discovered a great one. Present Tense is one of the finest and most creative musical efforts that I've heard in a very long time, and I buy a lot of music. In fact, there's truly no justice if it doesn't end up all over Ten Best lists for 2014. It's one of the few albums to which I consistently listen all the way through, simply because there's not a weak track on it.It's harder to characterize the sound of Wild Beasts on Present Tense, and that's part of the appeal--you cannot simply slot them into a familiar category. But if Alt Rock and Electronica had a love child, this is what it might sound like. Interestingly, I have not felt the same enthusiasm for the earlier albums of Wild Beasts--at least in listening to song samples. The band seems to have really evolved into the unique sound of Present Tense.With my five star rating, can I guarantee that you'll love Present Tense, too? No. Musical tastes are too varied for that. But I will guarantee that if my description above intrigues you, then it's definitely worth a few minutes of your time to check out the song samples and see what you think. Like me, you may discover a new album favorite when you least expected it.Thanks for taking the time to read my review and I hope you find it helpful in making a buying decision.

With this fourth offering from Wild Beasts, "Present Tense" continues on the path of change with significant favor for an electronic dominant sound. Although the smooth guitar work is minimal in comparison to their previous efforts, it shouldn't make fans feel as though this isn't the same band. The incredible vocals of Fleming and Thorpe still shine, perhaps even more beautifully than ever before. The lyrics are also amusing and clever once again.Although I feel that the album is short, it also feels complete since everything flows incredibly well. The first track "Wanderlust" has an addictive closing verse that I believe most people will be singing to themselves over and over again for a long time. "Sweet Spot" is a standout track with a smooth sexy sound and wonderful vocal transition. "A Dog's Life" has to be my favorite though as it is so brooding, combining with many different sounds and emotions.Overall, "Present Tense" is a strong effort by Wild Beasts and is an absolute must to listen to this year.

Great album

I have always been a big fan of this band, every cd has shown growth and artistry . This one took a little time to get into but it finally won me over. A Simple Beautiful Truth says it all and is probably the perfect pop song.

very nice

Hard to imagine there will be a better album than this in 2014. Absolutely sublime. Best band currently making music...

Thanks.

Beautiful music.

First I've ever heard of this band having bought the album following reading a review in a national paper. Do this quite often with varying results but this time it was an out and out winner. Every track is great but the stand out one for me is Mecca, which has got the lot. I can't see that you could ever categorise Wild Beasts nor should we try. They've got their own thing going on and credit to them. Just bought their previous album, Smother, and will now give this a good airing too.

Didn't think I'd like this as much as the other WB albums.....how wrong I was! Can't stop listening to it! Perfect listening for when you're stuck in rush hour traffic too.

I saw them on Jools and I thought this sounds alright and bought the CD. I can gladly say that they are really good ! ! ! ! Every song on the album is great which is rare in our days.

4th album from wild beasts starts with wanderlust and doesn't let up till last song palace vocals on all songs soar from start to finish stand out tracks are wanderlust daughters a dogs life and palace all in all a great album that reveals more each time you listen to it.

It is not a surprise, lovely songs, amazing music, the presentation of the package, Very nice presentation of the disc