Push Barman To Open Old Wounds (review)

Released in 2005, Push Barman To Open Old Wounds is a compilation of seven of the band’s EP’s from 1997-2005. Belle & Sebastian has a very unique style that is especially prevalent in this compilation. Nobody quite tackles the issues of the middle class subculture quite like this band. Their songs are dosed with witty undertones to everyday situations that seem to be swept under the rug by most other indie musicians. I would recommend this album to anyone, regardless of musical preference. Because everything in their music is so relatable and real, anyone could get into this band. This compilation contains songs ranging from a fast paced 1960’s style song about the excitement of an affair, to a narrative about an ongoing friendship with an indifferent (and living) Elvis. “Old Wounds” also contains many references to literary figures and
historical events. In the song “Le Pastie De La Bourgeoisie” (a pun on épater le bourgeois, meaning “shock to the middle class”) there are references to JD Salinger (author of Catcher in the Rye), Jack Kerouac, and Judy Blume. Through the use of humor and the occasional mocking of characters in their songs, Belle & Sebastian takes common dilemmas that people encounter and showshow pathetically they are handled. Although they seem to portray a more negative outlook on social issues, Belle & Sebastian also has many songs about being in love. There are love songs on the compilation both on the unfortunate and the fortunate sides of a love affair. To put icing on the cake, B & S has a brilliant sound. With the band consisting of six men and one woman, there is a plethora of instruments in every song. The combination of piano, electric and acoustic guitar, drums, violin, harmonica, keyboard, cello, and bass creates a musical melody that could turn even the blandest of lyrics into a beautiful composition.