Cinematic Orchestra* – To Believe

This band has always shone for me through their lively sound and indescribable warmth. However, this album is produced so smoothly and without dynamics that it bores me after the first side. It runs through quite nicely, but that's about it. What I miss is a certain naturalness and playfulness.

My copy is fine, no quality problems at all. The sound is very good, wide open soundstage, abyss deep bass, clear and punchy where needed. The vocal track To Believe takes me on such a trip every time I listen. Wow. It's a cherished masterpiece in my collection.

Ok, on the records itself I’m giving 5 stars, because it sounds amazing. Crisp, clear, no distortion or noise. Honestly one of the best sounding records I own. However. What the hell is up with packaging. Firstly, the records themselves don’t really fit in the included inner sleeves. Like they barely fit. But then those same inner sleeves once you’ve somehow got the records in them, don’t fit in the actual record sleeve??? Who approved this packaging??

Did anyone else accidentally listen to track A1 (title track) on 45RPM, and it still sounds perfect and beautiful? I don't think I've ever encountered another song like this. When it got to A2 and it sounded like Roots Manuva had inhaled helium, I was all "whaaaat?" But I digress... This vinyl release and the music it contains are transcendent. Find it at the record store under "electronica" but, in reality it completely defies categorization. Probably CO's best effort to date.

I lucked out with a flawless copy. Have to agree with others, side a is a real step over the edge into presenting the record, Roots Manuva is superb, but the whole album just flows really really well, I'd say it's up there with their best and a welcome return after 7 years!
Further addition after a few months, each time I listen to this it just gets better and better, I'm now set on the fact that this is their best record yet and one of my favourites.

Great copy of this edition. Clear of noise! Stunning LP. WOW

Unfortunately, my record also doesn´t sound good :( Side D sounds like, as it would be dirty or scratched all over. The content still great. But i will return it though, as it not a romantic vinyl crickeling anymore.

My copy sounds immaculate, thankfully. Silent and rich over all four sides. (Great album too...)

Musically its bit of a mixed feeling to me. The beginning is absolute breathtaking, and side A is an instant classic. But through the first few listen I might get bored over 4 pages. It might be a bit too much of the same. If the A&R would have cut it down to a 12'' with just 4-5 tracks, it would become an instant classic. But right now it just feels too much of the same.
Saying that, there are great moments, and especially side A is very emotional.
The pressing with the clear & white vinyl is great. No problems here. no dust in the sound..

I don't understand comments, 'cause it sounds good on my material! Great album. "Zero One/This Fantasy" is fantastic <3