TINDERSTICKS

Recorded specifically for the permanent memorial exhibition in the Belgian town of the same name, Ypres is a soundtrack of sorrow, reflection and daunt that recollects another tragic piece, Gavin Bryars' Sinking Of The Titanic, as well as the band's previous soundtrack works. Mournful orchestral arrangements, slowly drifting strings and the occasional piano note provide something of a catch-all accompaniment to the exhibition and Klaus Verscheure's attendant video. At times truly a wrench to listen to, Ypres' woeful airs serve a purpose - to encourage remembrance of a War that was never Great as a concept, simply 'great' due to the sheer scale of casualties in and around the small town. Tindersticks should be commended for following the commission's brief to the letter.

This review also appeared on Flipside Reviews

Paul PLEDGER
06/11/2014