Saint Etienne - Tales From Turnpike House / Up The Wooden Hills

scoundrel, Jan 16, 2006

Saint Etienne switches moods as easily as most people change clothes. TALES FROM TURNPIKE HOUSE is a lovely example of how a seemingly dull topic -- suburbia -- can yield unexpected beauty. From the folk delicacy of "Sun in My Morning" to the more upbeat "Milk Bottle Symphony," Sarah Cracknells lyrics again evoke a stunning portrait of place. "Slow Down at the Castle" calms things to a quiet boil with some beautiful strumming, while “A Good Thing” goes straight for dancefloor. The delicate “Side Streets” is a lovely bit of pop that also belies the hint of danger in the lyrics. Saint Etienne specializes in this juxtaposition: after its dreamy intro, “Last Orders for Gary Stead” becomes much rougher, almost rockabilly. Compare that to the hedonistic disco of “Stars Above Us” or the give-and-take between Cracknell and guest vocalist David Essex on “Relocate.” The album closes with the choral a cappella “Goodnight,” leading us out of our day in suburbia. Saint Etienne makes you want to visit again soon. The bonus disc definitely sounds like b-sides, mostly fun but not quite fully formed. “You Can Count on Me” is entertaining, but slight, and the same goes for the children-friendly “Let’s Build a Zoo.” “Night Owl” is a lovely lullaby, however, and a perfect capper to what proves to be another gem from Saint Etienne.

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