Goldfrapp explores its folksy side on Seventh Tree

This is Goldfrapp? To loyal Goldfrapp listeners, the uncharacteristic style shift on Seventh… This is Goldfrapp? To loyal Goldfrapp listeners, the uncharacteristic style shift on Seventh Tree might be alarming. If you’re searching for more of the same electro-pop tunes that you’ve come to know and love, look on, you glowstick-wielding party fiend.

If you’re looking for fresh and airy folk, on the other hand, look no further than Seventh Tree, where listeners are presented with a Goldfrapp they’ve never heard before. It seems this British duo has found a new way to impress with this unexpected switch.

Seventh Tree Goldfrapp Mute U.S. Rocks like: Kate Bush, Charlotte Gainsbourg, AIR

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Goldfrapp manages to stay true to itself by combining elements of both folk and electronica. Alison Goldfrapp and Will Gregory have the singer-songwriter vibe going for them, and the two showcase versatile vocals and simple instrumentals. Without overpowering the folk theme of the tracks, synthetic sounds are injected to give these songs an electronic edge.

Familiar DJ beats decorate “Happiness” and meld nicely with breathy vocals and an upbeat tone. A slightly whimsical overtone plays through, but those super-synth sounds remind listeners who’s behind the music.

The following song, “Road to Somewhere,” takes the mood to a new place, leaving whimsy for the subtly sensual. Strings play off soft piano and Alison Goldfrapp’s distinctive vocals, culminating in a familiar beat enhanced by those synthesized elements that characterize Goldfrapp’s style.

On the lighter side of the album is “Caravan Girl,” which takes the tone up a notch with strong vocals, piano and surprising guitar support. This is not a song for dancing, but it sure is a mood-lifter and could even be considered a bit on the peppy side of optimism. It is not too scary – just try not to picture happy people, and everything will be all right.

Seventh Tree has been called “dull,” but “dull” seems an unduly harsh word choice here. Of course, some listeners, particularly those accustomed to Goldfrapp’s old sound, will feel let down by this 180-degree change in style. But perhaps fans and newcomers alike should take the album for what it is.

This might include more folk inspiration than any other Goldfrapp album, but it’s still Goldfrapp. This is Goldfrapp unplugged, reinvented. If anything, the band should be rewarded for its bold deviation from fans’ expectations. It’s true that Goldfrapp has departed from its party vibe, but what’s left over is a slightly acoustic, vocally and lyrically heavy folk with just enough edge to keep the group’s loyal listeners.

In this case, maybe “chill” is more accurate than “dull” for characterizing the band’s tone on Seventh Tree. And what’s wrong with a mellow album? After all, one cannot live on intense, electric song stylings alone. Change can be good, and if it is not good, at least it’s far from boring. Listeners desire to be kept on their toes, and Goldfrapp is stepping up to the challenge.

In most cases you know what to expect when you buy an album. In this case, it’s best to make your purchase expectation-free. Alison Goldfrapp is going from electronica maven to crunchy-granola folk singer with just a touch of that edgy style. Seventh Tree is more than worth a listen, so long as you come into the experience with a fresh pair of ears.