Take That are, without question, the greatest Man Band in the world. I challenge you to show me a band that has made such a successful, likeable and humble comeback. They have none of the celebrity arrogance that comes with huge sell out bands, and the best part is that their music has actually become even better than before. I was never a big fan of Take That the first time round. Now, I am nothing short of a groupie.
The album is a well put together selection of poppy numbers and ballads and the theme of The Circus runs througout. Gary Barlow must be credited as one of the greatest singer-songwriters of this generation and his lyricism and musicianship are wonderfully put on show. Barlow sings with warmth and ease, back beautifully by his band mates whose harmonies blend and flow like they've been doing this for years. Oh...wait...
Mark Owen's deliciously shameless Mancunian accent gives character to the first track The Garden and other tracks, Julie and Hello. Owens distinctive vocal lends itself to the really showy upbeat numbers (as in the excellent Shine from previous album, Beautiful World). Of course, one of the strongest tracks on the album is UK #1 hit Greatest Day. The song is uplifting, epic, moving and simply wonderful. Watching the video, it is obvious that these fellas simply adore making this music. Other stand out tracks are The Circus, Here (which brings the circus right into the music) and Up All Night which is a definite nod to the work of Paul Simon.
All in all this is an excellent, exciting and adventurous album from Take That. It sits at number one on the UK album chart, and rightly so. These chaps are going to be around for a long time yet. So, here's my salute *salutes* to the man band, Take That.
My rating: **** 4/5 stars - Just a few tracks which don't stand out, but after a few more listens, that might become less of an issue and earn them another star!
