Florence and the Machine - Lungs

The ’80s-tinted, harp-heavy, poetic, engaging folk/electronic/blues/soul/dance/pop/rock of Florence and the Machine’s debut release Lungs is one of the greatest musical achievements of this year.

All of her tracks are lyrically strong, usually first-person narratives that never feel heavy or self-centered. Her perspective seems like the expression of the listener’s feelings, not her own emotions. She has a way of pulling in an audience immediately, her lush and intriguing lyrics drawing the listener into her sonic spell.

She also is an expert wielder of references. “Rabbit Heart” begins with an Alice in Wonderland allusion: “The looking glass, so shiny and new/How quickly the glamour fades/I start spinning, slipping out of time.” She continues the track with a chorus about King Midas, ultimately creating a fairy tale of fiction, myth and emotion.

Her songs are distinct for their impeccable and layered production. Instruments and rhythms meld seamlessly into an opulent soundscape. She makes spectacular use of strings, with both harp and violin creating a forceful and lively sound.

The majority of the album is fast-paced and intense, and this is where Florence shines, never becoming overwhelmed by the oft-pounding music. She also uses her powerhouse vocals for pseudo-ballads like “My Boy Builds Coffins.” These slower tracks are excellent, but they lack the vibrancy that otherwise characterizes Lungs.

What marks Flo’s first album is an eccentricity and variety that is rare in today’s music world. Her songs are filled with life and emotion, and their power is enough to make the air leave anyone’s lungs.