Albums: Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds

Named after a book released by acclaimed artist Pete McKee, Council Skies marks the return of Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds. Although there have been EP releases in the interim, it is 6 years since the release of the still impressive Who Built The Moon?

As the band's fourth studio album, it is fair to say that the group's ever loyal fanbase arrive at the release with pre-conceived expectations that the group need to fulfil in order to fully impress. The dish-du-jour delivers on the subtle indie pop anthems that the group have been known to steadfastly deliver. The lighter end of the Oasis catalogue epitomises the group that Noel formed, leaving the brasher edge to his brother.

So, given that the album delivers on the promise, does it push the boundaries to become impressive in its own right? Council Skies is a reflective collection. It looks back at the world through the eyes of the ambitious young man that became Noel. However, the album is not just a trip down memory lane, but correlates his prior life with his current and future aspirations. He isn't the sum of who he was, but who he is now and who he wishes to be.

Musically there are nods to The Cure within the soundscape, most notably on recent single Pretty Boy, while a future Bond anthem appears in the shape of the strings laden Dead To The World. However, it is in his noteworthy balladry - notably Trying To Find A World That’s Been And Gone - that the album finds its real heart.

Council Skies is a cleverly constructed return. It showcases Noel's skill as a songwriter and lyricist, while not changing the formula too far from expectations.