Heavenly
J. Gonzalez | orlando | 07/14/2005
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I love this cd. The tracks are beautiful. The live version of Essex is amazing, and was the main reason I purchased this. But everything on here is just beautiful. Total mood music. I recommend it."
Today is the day
Russell E. Scott | Austin, TX | 09/12/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"Restless by nature and anxious for the release of the new Sigur Ros - Takk CD I opted for an impulsive purchase to fit the mood of this melancholy, rainy day. Nothing could be more appropriate and dead center as the Seal Beach EP by The Album Leaf (2005 version) that has been reissued as a CD with 5 studio tracks and 5 unreleased live tracks recorded with Sigur Ros while on tour back in 2003.
In the post apocalyptic world of Hurricane Katrina and 4th anniversary of events surrounding 911 the whole post-rock, IMD indie-electronica thing seems more suited to this calm, retrospective listening. As I ponder the human dilemma and that future therein, the low-key songwriting with subtle dynamics coursing throughout, I get a sense of renewed hopefulness that somehow, someway we will get beyond this. There will still be a place of renewed emphasis and appreciation for beauty and art. The creative expression of pain and suffering will serve to heal wounds, extend ties that bind.
It's pouring out side and even if the waters rise to levels of intrusion I will end this day in a better place. In my mind and heart I have already traveled there. I lay listlessly on the sand, all worry taken out with the tides, and this music scores the sonic bliss, the soundtrack of today. Melodies soar as a seagull dives for some unseen treasure, and the waters lap at my feet, keeping meter and pace with these beautiful songs. Now that I hear, I almost feel I can touch this heaven - Seal Beach, the light on the other side of Dark City."
Track Listings (10) - Disc #1