The Church have always had the ability to write songs whose lyrics sneak beneath one's level of consciousness. Steve Kilbey's voice sounds so much like the voices in our own heads that we seem to see what he sees. Combined with Marty Willson-Piper's strong guitar hooks, the Church has always had a very powerful captivating effect on all of their listeners.

The Church believe that atmosphere is everything (they perform in long, black trench coats-- no smiles, naturally), so, it's not surprising to see they're still going goth on Hologram of Baal. The swaying chords of "Louisiana" paired with Tim Powles' lazy drumtaps create a dreamlike scene of verandas and hot summers. "Tranquility" is a hauntingly pure ode to those who free themselves from the chains of modern life. The Church cast images of placid and wide open spaces. They transport us to that place through the lyrics-- and they do it effortlessly.

Throughout this record, the rolling melodies create a brand of subtle and sublime pop that mesmerizes listeners in an age when good music is hard to come by. This sound certainly stands out.

-Aparna Mohan