Camera Obscura’s “Look to the East, Look to the West” is their first album in 11 years but they waste no time re-capturing the essence of what they are known for; effortlessly blending catchy hooks with thoughtful songwriting surrounded by lush, modern arrangements.
The death of keyboard player Carey Lander in 2015 devastated the band and their leader, Traceyanne Campbell was afraid they wouldn’t record again. But she decided to have another go at it and, after recruiting a new keyboard player she has returned the band to form including a melancholy tribute to Lander.
The arrangements are more sparse than previous albums as if to reflect how everyone is older now but in embracing subtler textures they have tapped into a new avenue for reflecting their poignant, honest and direct songs.
Eleven years is a long time to be dormant but Camera Obscura have found their direction again in “Look to the East, Look to the West” an album sure to be as loved as the five they released between 2001 and 2013. The new album has a beautiful nostalgic feel
