Search - Michael Head :: Magical World of the Strands

For Belle and Sebastian fans who've always wanted more...

Christopher G. Huttman | Atlanta, GA USA | 06/26/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Michael Head is probably better known as the lead singer of the Pale Fountains and more recently Shack. Ok, so he isn't that well known. The Strands (released oddly as Michael Head presents even though most Michael Head fans probably knew who they were anyway) are in the same vein as Belle and Sebastian's chamber pop (though preceeding it).The Strands have similar influences, notably Nick Drake and Love (more Love than B & S though). The Strands are less scientific when it comes to making music however. If you've ever been enjoying a Belle and Sebastian song but been put off because Stuart Murdoch sometimes crosses the line between influence and parody (the Nick Drake voice for instance) then the Strands might be more up your alley. They aren't quite as pretty in a clinical way as Belle and Sebastian are (much like Shack) but they should pretty easily win you over with their charm.Shack has been described as Nick Drake with testosterone, that isn't a bad description of Shack or the Strands. I'd also add that if you can't get by some of the hippy elements of Love but like the way they sound (as myself, someone born in 1980 can't really identify with many of the dated lyrical themes of Forever Changes) you'll probably like both the Strands and Shack. Try them out today."

Patiently search for, listen to, then believe the hype

Christopher G. Huttman | 06/21/2003

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Like Mr. Head's later work (Shack's "HMS Fable") this intricate, delicately layered album made NO impression upon me at first listen. However, with repeated listenings, it's subtle production started to open up to my ears. The slippery melodies, the nuanced arrangements, and most of all, the direct, heartfelt emotions, drew me further and further in. This album is pure bliss. The chords and guitar bridges seem so simple, yet so totally right. Mr. Head's voice, lyrics and instrumentation slice a direct line from his heart and mind into your own. It sounds more sparse and folky than Waterpistol or HMS Fable, but many will tell you it is his best work. It is also the hardest to find, but well worth the effort."

~~~~~~~ Astonishing Beyond Belief ~~~~~~~~~

Bonnie Buellis | Westminster, Maryland United States | 06/01/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Mick and John even with all they have been through have made
a Magical World indeed.One of the most complete lovely recordings
that has graced my soul,and will to come for many years.
I still remain amazed as I have from the early PF days."