The Verve – Urban Hymns: Retrospective

The light beamed from the shadows of indie music, and one of the most sought after bands released their seminal album in 1997, called Urban Hymns. It was an album that truly lit the scene, with lyrics of melancholy and cultural significance. The Verve released two albums prior to Urban Hymns, and they earned the band some acclaim, but their magnum opus was praised wholeheartedly by critics and fans alike.

The Verve had a distinctive sound, an alternative rock sound, layered and layered in poppy elements. Urban Hymns was also standout album in terms of musical importance, and it was a successful sell for the band. They would be granted superstar status and lead singer Richard Ashcroft became an icon. His lyrical gems swayed people in, his vocal work astounded the fanbase, and these songs were ground breaking.

Urban Hymns was a record brimming with emotion. It stuck on to atmosphere like glue, spreading its magic, and it became an album for a generation of punks and indie lovers alike. It was an accessible album also, with many of the songs easy to fall into. Every song had meaning too, and they all interweaved to create a colossal output. It really was a faultless record.

Fan favourite Bittersweet Symphony opened the collection and was a giant success story. The sound of the 90s and a tender, melancholic stab at rock, it became a go to for the alienated. Ashcroft sounded rejuvenated and ready for the fight. Sonnet was another incredible contribution, with different styles interlocking. Ashcroft sounded alive, but the song was another melodic heart-puller. The Drugs Don’t Work was preview into the life of Ashcroft, detailing drugs as a source of pain. The acoustic flair added substance. Lucky Man kick-started the guitar influence, and would become a staple, a warming embrace.

Urban Hymns was The Verve’s standout collection, which was ground-breaking for band and fan. An outstanding opus, made for immediate praise.     

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