This latest album from the group boasts of a new sound and lots of introspection as they move into a new era.
This being the first album since the untimely passing of Mark Sheehan last year, it is perhaps no surprise that ‘Satellites’ is an album by The Script that is filled with emotion that highlights grief but also of course the idea of living each day to the full and in the present – no matter what it brings.
From opening track ‘Both Ways’ all the way through to ‘Run Run Run’, this is is an album that signals a change for the group and stepping into a new era with confidence and with plenty of songs to enjoy along the way.
Never forgetting their distinct sound musically, there is a cool crispness to songs such as ‘Unsaid’ that is packed with heartfelt lyrics that really hit the heart – just listen to ‘Gone’ for example and it is clear that Mark Sheehan is still a part of The Script’s thoughts. it has a rawness to it that shows that the grief felt is still very real.
Yet it also feels like a deeply personal and relatable album as well, with Danny O’Donoghue’s lyrics really tapping into life experiences with striking honesty as heard on ‘Inside Out’ with its references to mental health and anxiety that will strike a chord with a lot of people’
Musically, the sound is vibrant and feels more experimental in a pleasing way, it is like they have re-mixed their usual sound with something that suggests they are taking it up another level to become even more distinctive. This leaves you with a feeling that there is an element of nostalgia, while thinking about what the future holds with ‘Run Run Run’ and ‘At Your Feet’ providing particular glimmers of this.
It is an easygoing album to listen to, filled with an earnestness to it that ensures that the songs come across as well grounded and not over the top. ‘Falling, Flying’ for example is filled with texture and warmth musically that makes you sit up and pay attention – there is nothing overblown here.
Perhaps it is a quieter approach than we are used to seeing from The Script, but it perfectly captures exactly where they are as they enter a new era without the much missed Sheehan. Never outstaying its welcome, ‘Satellites’ is a beautifully poignant and sympathetic album.
By Emma Clarendon
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Satellites is available to buy now.