Opposition - Promises

Ever since I heard Opposition's single "My Room is White" from their last album, I have been awaiting something more substantial (quantity-wise) from this British trio. Mr. and Mrs. Critic are pleased to announce the arrival of another healthy album. Cigars for everyone. My wait has not been in vain, as Opposition's newest work "Promises" continues on in the fine tradition of their second album "Intimacy". The sound of the album is clean and uncluttered. Opposition shows tremendous discipline and ability by not falling into minimalistic starkness, although maintaining a flirtation with the boundaries of that trap. It is a pleasant paradox that the sound of three musicians can create such a richness without the use of actual volume.

Perhaps the pictures on the cover and sleeve of the album fuel my imagination, but I sense a strong bond between childhood, growing up, and Mark Long's lyrics The images of "Don't Forget To Leave The Light On In The Hall" may not be identical to everyone's memories of a childhood sleepless night, but they are sure to evoke parallels. The song "Fall In Line", which is about conformity, and titles such as "Innocent" only strengthen the concept. The lyrics blend well with the quiet strength of the music, which is written by all three band members. Mark Long, Marcus Bell and Ralph Hall. "Promises" gives the listener an understanding of a world he has only been watching through the glass.

Boriana Vitanov