Live Review: Belle & Sebastian 'The Party Line'

It is fair to say Belle and Sebastian are not who they once were. Back from a five year break since their last album 'Write About Love' in 2010, it seems like they are maturing like a bottle of fine wine as though age is of no consequence to the Scottish veterans.

Their latest track 'The Party Line' makes its debut as the first radio single off their ninth album 'Girls in Peacetime Want to Dance'. It also marks a further departure from from the acoustic jams like 'The Stars of Track and Field' and 'Another Sunny Day', they seem to be adopting an even more refined yet outwardly exuberant approach towards their songwriting.

The track, which makes a beeline for the dance-floor, is made up of funky disco grooves and a sunny light-hearted vibe which oozes from the bustling synth lines that circle in and out. Gone are the unyielding finger-pickings, tasty guitar licks and country-boots-slinging harmonies.

A teasing Stuart Murdoch then liberates you from the humdrum of your work week with an invitation to "jump to the beat of the party line". While it is refreshing compared to their previous melancholic tunes of heartbreak and lost love, their new direction certainly won't lie well with their matured fans. But make no mistake, we are not complaining, conga line in January anyone?

Belle & Sebastian will release their ninth album 'Girls in Peacetime Want to Dance' on January 16 next year, they will also play several dates in Australia in January.

Wednesday, 28 January

The Tivoli, Brisbane

Thursday, 29 January

Enmore Theatre, Sydney

Sunday, 1 February

Palais Theatre, Melbourne

Thursday, 3 February

Astor Theatre, Perth

Words by Darren Ng

LISTEN TO MORE NEW MUSIC HERE

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FLASHBACK: BELLE AND SEBASTIAN ‘IF YOU’RE FEELING SINISTER’ PITCHFORK CLASSIC DOCUMENTARY