Reviewed by Paul Kerslake

This is the follow up to the Swedish art rockers' 'Scrapbook' debut. After a short instrumental introduction, the expansive rock rhythms surge from the speakers, Joel Goranson's fragile voice supported by layers of guitars and some soaring vocal harmonies. "Retreat" has a syncopated, fragmented rhythm, again with wistful bvs that are choral and almost medieval in texture. This is no accident; the members of Alibi Tom have classical backgrounds that they mix with their pop sensibilities and alternative ideas. And the main recordings for the album were carried out in old rural churches, capturing the ambience and feel from the environment. "The Best Of Worst Days" introduces cello to the mix (rock cello anyone?), "Now Like Then" some subtle xylophone and piano. Like a blend of Radiohead and Sigur Ros, Alibi Tom introduce an inventiveness and ethereal quality to melodic and haunting songs. Possibly the most creative album I've heard this year, really inspirational and uplifting, 'This Sleeping' deserves to receive wide attention.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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