The album opens with the title track “Cold”, which is a fitting representation of the general theme of the album – introspective, emotional, and often melancholic. The song is gentle, almost ethereal and sets the tone for what is to follow. The second track on the album, “Hallelujah (So Low)”, is a highlight of “Aerial” and leads with the intersection of an acoustic guitar riff and electronic beats, creating tension that builds into a powerful chorus. The lyrics behind the song are politically charged, touching on themes of power and inequality in society.
“A Ton of Love” is the first single to be released off the album and stands out for its driving rhythm and catchy chorus. It embodies the classic Editors sound that fans are familiar with, hinting that the band’s capabilities have not dissipated with age. The song is followed by “Darkness at the Door”, which merges electronic elements with guitar melodies perfectly, creating a track that is both moody and upbeat. “No Sound but the Wind” is a reworking of a song from their “In This Light And On This Evening” album, stripped back and acoustic, creating a sense of delicate isolation.
“Aerial” also contains a plethora of mid-tempo songs that reminisce on the band’s earliest works. “Magazine” is a driving yet plaintive track that captures the anguish of someone who has been cast aside. Meanwhile, “Belong” explores themes of being lost and desperate to find a place of happiness and contentment. The album closes with “Counting Spooks”, a slow-building track that takes listener to a dream-like state before the song picks up momentum and leads to an electronic-fuelled crescendo, rounding off the album.
It is clear that “Aerial” is a departure from their previous work, but the evolution of Editors’ sound is a welcome one. The album’s focus on introspection, its intricate electronic soundscape, and its beautiful lyricism are evidence of the band’s progression. Since its release, it has been recognized as one of the best alternative rock releases of 2018. The album has been praised for its beautiful production and innovative approach to the genre, encapsulating the very best of an era in which rock the band declares “I can change, give me a day, and I’ll rearrange, Lyrics from “No Sound but the Wind”.
In conclusion, “Aerial” is a must-have for Editors fans and anyone who enjoys thought-provoking, well-crafted music. It’s an album that showcases the band’s incredible musical abilities while pushing the limits of genre. “Aerial” is a work of art, with each track adding an important profundity to the album, making it a truly rewarding listen from beginning to end. It’s an album that Editors can be proud of, and one that will stand as a testament to their ever-evolving talent for years to come.