As King Charles released a new album, New Orleans, just this week, I would like to write about the artist's 2012 release, Loveblood. This is an album you need to listen to if you are looking to feel better about life. The musical equivalent of a strong, delicious cup of coffee, the album combines folk-pop with African infused rhythms and truly original poetic lyrics. King Charles hails from West London and won an international song-writing award in 2009 for the fourth song on the album, Love Lust. Mumford and Sons and Laura Marling are among the artist's associated acts, and King Charles featured the former in a unique live performance of The Brightest Lights. Loveblood is truly a varied album, ranging from the vibrant, folky title track to the soft rock inspired Coco Chitty. Although King Charles has acheived a unique sound, comparison may be drawn to the music of the widely acclaimed Vampire Weekend. Lyrically, the album is a refreshing blend of literary references and quirky metaphors. The way in which the album is written allows for a continuity between songs. "Mississipi Isabel" is the second track on the album, and the lass mentioned in the title makes an appearance in "Love Lust" which comes two songs later. The emotional range of the album is wide, including the fun and fast-paced "Bam Bam" and the aforementioned soft rock ballad, "Coco Chitty". The colourful metaphors littering the chorus of "Polar Bear" make for a feel-good track despite the angst-ridden, dramatic instrumentation and melody. Reference is made to Scripture and Mythology, giving the album a lyrical depth. The "love [that is] bolder than death" in the title crack is a Biblical reference, while Love Lust describes the object of the singer's affection as having 'the strength of the Greeks'. While the sound of the album shows the artist's versatility, the eloquence of the lyrics creates a thread that runs through Loveblood.
Musically, the clarity of King Charles' voice dances alongside a rich blend of instruments. These include both electric and acoustic guitar, banjo, a colourful arrangement of drums, violin, cello and keys. Soulful vocal harmonies accompany King Charles at various points in Loveblood. Electronic elements and synth sounds enrich the music at various points in the album. "Lady Percy" samples a motorbike sound at the start and finish of the song, adding a playful element to the album as a whole. The assorted tempos guide the mood of each song and ensure that the listener is never bored. These include lilting folky beats, faster African rhythms and steady, 4/4 timing.
The lyrics are perhaps the best aspect of this album, alongside the happy feelings that result after listening. It is not often that such beautifully written words are accompanied by equally nice instrumentation and melodies. This is a great album, and bodes well for King Charles' newest work.
