Not Coldplay nor cold sore

Elbow certainly is a diamond in the rough among the current British art rock crop -- though it won't be the next Coldplay. Released in the UK last August to much critical and fan acclaim, Elbow's sophomore album, Cast of Thousands, makes its American debut this month. Free-form poetic lyrics about the amazements and annoyances of everyday life blend perfectly with subtle yet boundless soundscapes, making Cast a rewarding, if only slightly challenging, listen. The album's mostly calm, laid-back vibe makes it perfect for a late night, headphone space-out.\nThe resounding choral choruses of the opener "Ribcage" and pseudo-closer "Grace Under Pressure" nearly reach the greatness of Coldplay's best work, while "Switching Off" manages to be the most beautiful thing I've heard on record so far this year, with lead singer Guy Garvey proclaiming "you're the only sense the world has ever made." Additionally, the Doors-ish organ on "I've Got Your Number," and the Atom Heart Mother-era Pink Floyd sound of "Not a Job" showcase the band's ability to emulate without imitating. Garvey may sound remarkably similar to Coldplay's Chris Martin, but this has to be forgiven, considering the utter impossibility of finding any recent British rock band which doesn't desire Martin and company's status.\nWhile so many current British art rock bands attempt and fail to sound intelligent with electronic blips, overdone layering and false-feeling pretention, Elbow succeeds by wearing its heart on its sleeves and making a forthright, honest record.