(Popfrenzy/Stomp)

Because sixty minutes would have been too long?

London’s Sian Alice Group have crafted an elegant pseudo-instrumental record with 59.59, which runs for the exact time that its title suggests. It’s a sound that veers towards and away from post-rock conventions with equal measure. The pivotal element is the vocals of Sian Ahern, whose sweet, soft tones do well to counterbalance the overbearing instrumentation. As The Morning Light is a simple guitar progression with Ahern repeating the title as a mantra, and it’s extremely effective. Complete Affection features Spiritualized’s John Coxon with some guitar wailing. The balancing act of songs veering structurally between pop song and instrumental is a difficult one but Sian Alice Group pull it off like they invented it, and the revolving door of musical styles throughout prevents boredom. The album is peppered with interludes linked to the album’s length, and they pull the suites together nicely, making for a cohesive and enjoyable listen.

MICHAEL PINCOTT

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