The Stakes Have Never Been So Low is the new Album from Night & Fog. Night and Fog are Simon Brennan and Robbie Doyle who have been formulating this album over the course of a year and a half. They are originally from Dublin but currently reside in London, however lets not let their English current residence take away from this Irish release. The Stakes Have Night Been So Low was released in June 2011.
The first track of the album “Freaks & Queens” has that generic 80’s synth sound but boasts an array of bright colours as guitars are introduced. The vocal melodies and tones pitch somewhere close between David Gilmour’s melodies of “On an Island” and Come on Live Long.
“If It Kills Me” hits the stereo speakers next, the strangely phrased instruments create an uplifting piece that has the impact to put a smile on your face and warmth in your heart. The song moves into a Muse-esque arppegiated synth sound that gradually lifts like the air from the aftermath of war.
“Special Brew” is the third track on this album, the drum machine takes charge and the melody strangely reminds me of “Renegades of Funk’ cover by Rage Against The Machine.
“Sunday Wanderings” has the first scent of a real instrument as an electric guitar is strum at the start of the song, leaving curious to the direction in which the album is moving. The double tracking of the vocals give a beautiful and soft tone to the melodies.
“Movement” is the hook of the entire album in my opinion, fashioning a grand piano with electronic beats and followed by the introduction of a real drum kit.
The album boasts beautifully crafted electronic music and well crafted vocal melodies that could contend with the likes of Sir David Gilmour of Pink Floyd (jealous much?). Overall, its an album you put on late at night in a poorly lit room. A great find and definitely will be in my bedtime playlist for months to come.