A Short Album About Love

What a pleasant surprise! Dark and arch and self aware and funny and sad. Delightful.

Its a cute little album i love it

This one's for the history books. What a great album!

This is a rare example where Dimery has rightly determined a lesser known artist as worthy of this list. What a pleasant surprise this is. On the first listen I was a little taken aback at the naff lyrics, but second time around I started to get what Neil is on about, and it works. The fragrance of Scott Walker is ever present and it works really well. While not on this album, their take on Make it Easy on Yourself is fantastic. The arrangements here are superb, the horns in particular. These are fine tunes, great flowing melodies played by an ensemble that knows their craft. Neil is clearly another Northern Irish ratbag and as with Van et al it works. I got to thinking that there is touch of the other Neil, Innes, in his lyrics, but the music is so good that it stops the songs becoming panto. This is really, really good, the music alone is incredible, the arrangements, the playing, the structure, superb. And the singing is great, he deliberately goes slightly off key at certain times, but once you hear what he's doing the whole thing flows. An absolute delight and I'm well pleased to have discovered a new artist.

Very good! All the things I like about the Divine Comedy without the quirkiness that is sometimes too much. And nice and short. I’d almost give it 5 stars… It’s probably a 4 but I’m going to give it 5 to remind myself how much I like it.

In pursuit of happiness, someone, if (gagged at the ending), I’m all you need - were personal favourites The album is a love album but there’s something sinister about the songs that kinda expand on how strong his love for this person is. The parts where the orchestra/band was playing on a couple of the songs were soo good

This was really interesting. Very enjoyable. I really liked it.

Melodramatic and over the top, with lyrics that were at times a bit unhinged. The longer I listened, the more I loved it

Zmer se veselim poslušanja, ko vidim, da je nekaj, kar ne poznam. In naslov ne laže, 31 minut je vse skp. Začnemo z "In Pursuit of Happiness" (ugh, aren't we all?). Ok, začne se na en način (počasno, trobentasto, nizko, resno), razvije pa v čist neki drucga (hitro, urgentno, divje). And I love it. Besedilo je kul. Nasledn komad ("Everybody Knows (Except You)") je pač, totaln opis mene pri 20ih alpa nekoga recimo, ki je hopelessly zatrapan v nekoga in to že vsi vejo, razen THE person. "Someone" je baladast in v bistvu prou hud komad. Tip ma fine vokale, vsa besedila do zdaj po mojem mnenju totalno zadanejo različna obdobja zaljubljenosti in ljubezni. Že vidim, da bo to album, k ga bom še poslušala. "If..." je silly, kinda hilarious. Še kako se konča v crescendu je smešn. Self deprecation je zmer zabavn ("If I Were You (I'd Be Through with Me)"). "Timewatching" je mal žalostna balada. Ampak čudovita. In zadnji, "I'm All You Need" ma dost kratko besedilo, spet začinjeno s humorjem. (Včasih se zj lotim pogledat kako so drugi ljudje reviewali album, ki ga poslušam in je zanimiv vidit, kako se v kakšnih mišljenjih ujamemo in kako se drugje popolnoma razlikujemo. Tu se predvsem strinjam s primerjavami s Scott Walkerjem (sploh barva glasu) in celo Father John Misty vajbom (kinda; hudi komadi tinged z abstraktnim humorjem in mal self deprekacije), mi je blo pa zanimiv vidit, kok folka ni razumel albuma in ga slabo ocenili. Oh, well. Je pa nekdo napisal podobno k js, da album pokrije različne stopnje zaljubljenosti in ljubezni, vključno s toksičnimi aspekti in heartbreakom. Yes! In, đizs krajst folk, kdo prav, da morjo bit besedila zmer resna/smiselna?!)

I was really trying to find a possibility in which I didn't absolutely love this, but it just doesn't exist. Winking, cheeky, outsider, but with that chamber pop sound I love. Some songs reminded me of Monkees outtakes, which are some of my favorite tunes. Yeah, idk, this was kinda made for me!

What a beautiful voice!

Fav: I’m All You Need Least Fav: Timewatching Might be my favourite new discovery so far. All the songs are bangers and the lyrics are hilarious. I see a lot of people complaining about the dreadful lyrics but they fail to see it’s clearly comedic. Moral of the story is that The Divine Comedy is hugely underrated by the users on this website

This one is a true "going in blind" album. No idea who these guys are. Never heard of this album. I am absolutely blown away. Could be that this was my first listen not at my home, or that I'm freshly married, but front to back this is such an impressionable and moving album. Dare I say my first 5 stars and not at all the emotions I expected while sitting in an airport. I also like when the theme of an album is clear and throughout (a la Dark Side of the Moon), and this one stays its course throughout. Will need to give it a second listen but for sure my fave from the project this far (not that many albums in to be fair).

Bavi me to, trochu do opery

genuinely surprised by this one. another album on this list that can be simply described as "all killer, no filler". orchestral, almost big band pop music inspired from classic mood and ballrom music from almost a century ago. songs of longing and intense emotion, this album is chock full of pretty and progressive orchestral motifs and accompaniments. despite the short runtime, there's a lot of power in the instrumentals that make the songs hit a lot harder.

The Divine Comedy is all of the bets parts of John Hawley with none of the boredom

DC at it's peak. Majestic vocal performance demanding an orchestra and a world of yore to muse upon.

I'm going for it. This album is the sort of thing I love about this list. It is kind of weird, very direct, full of passion and its own style, and is great to listen to. I was fighting between a 4 or 5 but after my fourth listen I realized I was fighting it down because it felt odd to give it such a great rating; I'm doing it the same way they did. Putting something down that feels right and makes me smile even if other things could be better or more fitting. Great voice.

When I started this album during my morning drive I did so with apprehensions. The chamber pop and humorous nature at times had me cautious. I also realized I had heard the opening track before. As I reached the end of my first listen, and thought about it I didn't have any complaints. The production was solid, the album length appreciated. Second listen during my lunch I found myself getting lost in it at times. Felt some Bowie energy. During the drive home (third listen) it crossed my mind that I think this is a four or five. Fourth listen writing this whole review. This is an album. Cohesive, thematic, not repetitive and not over compressed like many albums of the era. Each track kind of keeps building until the end. Some nice trumpets

im sad ive never heard this piece of baroque pop before! almost as sad as i was to learn that "everyone knows (except you)" was the breakout hit, when it is objectively the worst song on the album

This is a good album. I don't like all their stuff, but I surprisingly have to give this one a 5. Kinda like a happier magnetic fields, or a piano-forward jam band.

Maybe it's because I'm lying sick in bed, but this Album gave me a nice trip without any drugs 5/5

Really enjoyed this all the way around. Don’t have a favorite song, all were lovely.

Alright, I'll admit it, I have loved The Divine Comedy for more than thirty years. I almost knew what my review was going to be before even having to listen - until I read some of the others here. Couple of general (and one specific) retorts. First and foremost - the clue is in the name of the band. Third word, six leters, starts with C, ends in Y. For this album, the comedy comes both from the absurdity of romance and its destructiveness. It's a version of "would you still love me if I was a worm?" set to massively indulgent orchestral music. Hannon's previous work was more overtly whimsical, and there is an argument that he owes considerable success to his involvement in one of the most popular comedy television shows of the 90s (Father Ted, now impossibly tainted by the repugnant views of its creator) - but people coming to this album without that context may not be clued in to that. It is tempting to quote Mansun's Open Letter to the Lyrical Trainspotter, from the year before this album - "The lyrics aren't supposed to mean that much, they're just a vehicle for a lovely voice" - but that does Hannon a disservice. The lyrics are crucial to appreciating (not enjoying) this album. You can enjoy it just fine by regarding the lyrics as the vehicle for a lovely voice - because Hannon really does have a lovely voice. To really appreciate the album though, you have to acknowledge that the lyrics are deliberate. Juvenile, outrageous, puerile, vicious, ecstatic, and above all - absurd. Just like love. Hannon really knows what he's doing, and this mostly very good album fits snugly into his ouvre. It nestles between the burnt bitterness of Cassanova and the introspection, soul searching and awakening of Fin de Siècle, and knowing any of this should help with the appreciation of it. If you want to. If you don't, then just use it as a mechanism for hearing saccharine orchestra and a beautiful baratone singing stuff. Or don't. You see, the thing about us Gen Xers is that we don't really care what you do.

Yes, he nicked Scott Walker's sound, but the music does sound like Scott Walker, so 5 stars.

Don't listen to any of these retards spouting nonsense about this album being bad, this is for the lovers only. So far the highlight of this whole thing along with L.A Woman (day 16)

I liked the bit about hanging out with sheep in succulent pastures xx

Love this lots! I was just listening to Neil Hannon singing with Ute Lemper the other day and remembering how much I love him and The Divine Comedy. I don't say this often, but I wouldn't have minded a longer album about love.

I think we’re at the point in this project where 75% of my notes are going to start with, “Really? [insert name of artist] again???” Other than my being surprised that I must listen to (at least) two (and a half if we count Ute Lemper’s Punishing Kiss) albums by The Divine Comedy before I die, I really enjoyed all the theatrics. We’ve had some dramatic outings here in the last several days and I am here for it!

My biggest complain about “a short album about love” is the ‘short’ part. Fortunately, the 2020 Reissue more than doubles the runtime with some additional great tracks, including a Bert Bacharach/Hal David tune (Make It Easy On Yourself) - something I’ve wanted to hear from The Divine Comedy since listening to the previous album. What can I say, this album is a glorious collection of love songs! “Hey, don't be suprised, if millions die in plague and murder, True happiness lies beyond your fries and happy burger.” “I told the passersby, I made a small boy cry And I'll get through to you if it's the last thing that I do.” “I need to be someone’s somebody.” “If you were a horse I'd clean the crap out of your stable And never once complain.” “And if I were you I wouldn’t let the shit you get from me get the better of you.” “When I fall behind in the quest for pleasure I shall treasure this short time with you.” “Don't look a horse in the mouth, Don't let a frog get you down, Dragging you round like a dog on a lead, I'm all you need.” I LOVE this album! TERRIFIC!

Great album not something id listen to but great 👍🏾

Didn't know them. Love it.

This came as a surprise. I never before heard of this band. Pleasing songs with a fantastic instrumentation—both the arrangements and the execution in collaboration with The Brunel Ensemble.

This was really weird and unexpected but I love crooning so 5 stars hell yea

It’s a hard tightrope to walk - bridging a gap between swooningly earnest romance and knowingly humorous cynicism. But with great songs. And an orchestra. This is the absolute apex of Neil Hannon’s Divine Comedy, where the band synthesised The Smiths, Scott Walker and 60’s pop into something truly magnificent. Only 7 tracks, each one perfect. In Pursuit of Happiness is breathtaking in where the orchestration runs to from the single guitar it starts with. Everybody Knows is just a great pop song - and has a genuinely laugh out loud line about making a small boy cry. Someone just a great love song about longing If… I wrote about this for my English A Levels. Just so clever the way the nasty heart of the song is hidden inside what initially seem comedic lyrics. If I Were You is another great pop song Time watching is an update of a track from his first album and is starkly dramatic with just the strings and his voice. I’m all you need another great orchestral piece I wouldn’t change a note on this album The covers of Johnny Mathis’ Feet and Make it Easy On Yourself on the extended edition are well worth checking out as well

Beautiful, fun, elegant, great simple concepts executed extremely well. Varying instrumentation keeps me on my toes and gets this album the edge it needs to be wonderful, even if it's only following its title's instructions.

Fun album - love the orchestration, the melodies and lyrics are clever. My favorite piece is Timewatching - homage to Nat King Cole - he's singing with only string accompaniment. The strings are exquisite.

5, Of course. Canciones: Everybody Knows (except you)

I don’t think I’ve heard of The Divine Comedy before. The name makes me expect comedy music for obvious reasons, but I can’t see something like that being considered an essential album. Let’s listen and find out! Songs I already knew: none Favourites: Everybody Knows (Except You), If I Were You (I’d Be Through With Me) This album was wonderful. Apple Music says it’s pop, but that’s far too reductive for this. It’s symphonic with crooning vocals, but I wouldn’t know what to categorise this music as. What I can say is that it sounds fantastic, there is the running theme of love and self deprecation, and it is a fairly quick listen at just over half an hour. I liked this a lot and would definitely recommend you give it a try.

Short but epic. Wonderful stuff from Mr Hannon and his marvellous melody makers.

Pure raw grunge

Another exciting and wonderful surprise in a shape of a band, The Divine Comedy, thatcI have never heard of! From the first song onwards, this album was full of baroque splendor and glamour, orchestral motives and actually great singing by the main guy in the band, Neil Hannon. I never knew this, but he was a composer that recorded music for IT Crowd and Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy. This album let me appreciate him even more. Basically every song on the record is a hit, or at least a single worthy track. I am certainly adding almost whole album to my everyday playlist. Great job Neil, easily 5 stars.

Wow, I was not expecting this! How is this from the 90s? Let alone considered pop? Not that that's necessarily a bad thing, but this never what I would picture if you said that. The voice is absolutely magnificent, and the orchestral backing is gorgeous. Are some of the lyrics a little cheesy? Sure, but I don't care, it sounds amazing, and while this isn't technically an "album", so maybe it shouldn't be on this list, but I'm so glad it is. Fantastic. Reminds me a lot of Nick Cave.

A great listen throughout. Highly recommend it

Kinda goofy, but I like his voice

Talk about an underrated love/break up album. Genuinely some of the most beautiful melodies and movements on this short, grand album. Highlights: 1, 2, 4, 6, and 7.

5. Of course. Canciones: Everybody Knows (except you)

This was a beautiful little album. Funny, well delivered and half an hour in length. Bliss when you've had a barrage of 2 hour albums recently.

It’s exactly what it says on the tin, and it’s great. Everybody Knows is the highlight but the rest is brilliant. If… starts of sweet and ends up sinister by the end. It’s an album which encompasses love from many angles and does it in its own tongue-in-cheek manor.

Actually really enjoyed it. Orchestral, sad, intense

What more can you ask for? Bring out the romance, give me all your strings, bombast for everyone. I'm old and in love and enjoyed every second of this. Its not layered and era defining but you'd have to live a miserable life to take issue with its love and joy.

I think I kinda ragged the other The Divine Comedy album, because I thought he was a self-serious artist making something ridiculous without realizing. I think I realized with this one that he’s in on the joke, which makes me enjoy it more.

I really enjoyed the divine comedy. Both albums I’ve had. Great vocals and lyrical themes. I wonder why less of a household name than other acts of the time

Wederom brengen deze figuren een soort reserve-Nick Cave. Een wat aanstellerige stem en theatrale trekjes, maar die licht-ironische aanpak werkt deze keer wél heel goed, doordat ze het wat ingetogener brengen. Wellicht zeer verstandig om het kort te houden, maar daardoor juist effectief. Erg vermakelijk.

We liked it a lot. Not listened to this specific album of theirs before but enjoyed it - very theatrical. Except You is a particularly good song.

Ahhh - love a bit of the Divine Comedy! This is a short and sweet album. I just find the songs lovely. Highlight being Everybody Knows (Except You). I get why the Device Comedy are an acquired taste (and you do need to be 'in' on the tongue in cheek approach they have), but they're worth it. The Greatest Hits (A Secret History) is a great introduction to their peak years. Solid 4

I found this fun

A short review about loving this album.

It delivers on the title exactly, I cannot emphasize how much that makes me enjoy it too. Everybody Knows hooked me in pretty well, and while I dont know if I'll return to this one, it was also just composed pretty well too. You want to hear songs about hopeless love with some fun arrangements? Here you go.

Enjoyable as hell! Interesting songs about love DUH

You just don't get it, do you. The clue is in the name. Divine Comedy. So it's not a comic album but it's gloriously satirical and ironic. There are obviously a lot of people working their way through this list that are totally up their own ass.

Nice tunes

This was a great listen and I was hooked from the first song. Pretty consistent and I will definitely save some of these songs. 8/10

Lovely. Though arguably Promenade is the album that should have made it onto the list.

Очень понравилось читать хейтерские комментарии на этот альбом, даже жаль, что он мне на самом деле понравился

Me gustó bastante, un buen cambio de genero con los últimos que escuché. Lo instrumental del album las verdad que muy buenos. 8/10

This is its own thing. Reminds me of the Magnetic Fields' "69 Love Songs" - although this was first. The lyrics are often meant to be humorous or comic. Love can be humiliating.

I'm going to open with "this dude might have issues." I'm at least partially convinced this album is about a dude who loves a horse. That said, it's a great short album. In Pursuit of Happiness is a neat intro, Everybody Knows (Except You) is when I decided there was something wrong with this dude, and If... brings in the horses. If... may genuinely be up there as one of the more insane songs I've heard. After that, If I Were You (I'd Be Through With Me) is also a solid song. Also, the whole album is only 31 minutes so that's a nice quick wrap up.

Better than I expected

Mildt sagt interessante kjærlighetssanger, typ baroque pop. “If you were a horse, I’d clean the shit out of your stable.” Desperasjonen er tydelig…og tidvis creepy. Top 3: In Pursuit of Happiness, Everybody Knows (Except You), If I Were You (I’d Be Through With You)

Not sure why all the other reviews hate this so much. It's a perfectly enjoyable little capsule of witty love songs. Cheers, Neil.

This is the sort of music I am generally not fussed about, very ballady, not particularly emotional, meh, however with the light hearted, witty lyrics I was drawn more into. I enjoyed the musical highs, particularly when paired with bizarre love simile lyrics and it drew me into tracks I suspect I'd have otherwise dismissed. I don't know that they were funny enough to make it a great album, but it was fun and I will happily listen to more of their stuff.

Chud Scott Walker vibes. I think I secretly wanted to give the other Divine Comedy album a 4 so here you go buddy.

Honestly, I listened to this album all the way through twice and I’m still not entirely sure what to say about it except I think I really really like it. I sent to my friend Ron, and this is what Morrissey would sound like if he didn’t suck. Rarely do we get an album here that is something I have never even heard of. Most things on here is that I’ve never listened to or out of either ignorance or choice, but I at least knew of their existence prior. Apparently, this artist has been making music for 30 years, fairly prolifically, and somehow I never even heard of them. So, so the first couple songs on the record had me thinking that I would not like this. By the end of the record, I was enjoying it and wanted to listen again.

It is short, it most definitely is an album, and it is for sure about love. Accurate title. 4/5.

I like this chamber pop. Very nice.

Typical Mr Hannon fare. Heartfelt, comedic and interesting lyrically without ever getting out of 2nd gear. Like the strings also. Not up quite up there with Bad Abassador and Perfect Love Song. Probably a 7

Probably missed out on these by about a year as I switched from loungecore to house core between 95 and 96. Obvious comparisons to the Scott Walker album but I preferred this, thematically tighter and a bit more restrained in a good way, the horns in particular were great.

This was quite cool, I like the orchestral arrangements which reminded me of Burt Bacharach. The lyrics, if you take them as slightly tongue in cheek are quite nice and fun at the same time. I think Neil Hannon comes across as a bit of a parody at times but if you don't take this too seriously it's a really pleasant album of baroque pop

I've never heard of this artist before, so I was honestly pretty impressed with this one. First off, the orchestration on this album is superb. The strings and other accompanying instruments all blend so well together that the soundscapes are wonderful. The music also has Orchestral rise and falls, softs and louds, that really reach intense moments especially towards the end. Now, this record is one part silly seriousness and one part actual twisted depravity regarding feelings of love. It's hard to know what's a joke and what's a messed up confession. Hannon's vocals really do sell it though, his expressive delivery plus the quality of his croon really hits in a way I wasn't expecting. Seems almost proto-black country new road in places. Now the simple reason why I'm docking points is because of the overall enjoyability factor. Due to the narrative imbaguity I'm not entirely sure how to feel about the singer in these songs, and truth be told I don't know what kind of mood I would need to be in to put this one on in the future! There were also two tracks that kind of passed me by without much of an impression, even on a second listen.. Still, for never hearing this artist before and for all it's bizarre lyricism and odd vibes, I was thoroughly intrigued and entertained, and perhaps I will listen to more of this artist down the line.

Here’s another artist I’ve never even heard of before. I was a bit skeptical at first. It can be overly earnest, especially the single from this album. But it won me over in the end. There’s a sort of classic sound about it. If I hadn’t seen the release date I would have just as easily believed it came out last year as 50 years ago.

Very much pop. A bit of Brit in it. Might become a 4.

It was short, and it was about love. Exactly what it says on the tin. The music itself was pretty well made and pleasant to listen to. Not something I'd write home about but I'd probably listen to some of these songs again.

Much better than I thought it would be, though this artist having two albums on this list is crazy.

short and sweet 4/5

This album was ridiculous. Like Nick Cave filtered through The Kinks. Loved it.

Vamos hoy martes con una banda desconocida. La primera canción me engancha a través de la voz del cantante y el resto del álbum me mantiene atento. Disco chill, para una juntada, quizás. Se siente dramático, pasional, con toques oscuros. Una linda sorpresa. Hasta mañana

I love the orchestrations and dudes got a great voice. It's a little cheesy, but I think that's part of the charm. And, as the title says, it's short!

Solid music, liked it a lot but maybe a little too short.

Hilariously earnest. Not fun to listen to, but they do know how to silly.

do isch öpper mega verliebt gsi? die erste zwei songs sind afoch "ich lueb dich unglaublich fest" uf e sehr dramatischi art. finds beides sehr gueti songs. er cha uhuere singe hoi. und s arrangement uf someone isch suuuper geil if... isch komischh. aso s isch glaub d idee dases herzig isch und denn chli creepy. ich check glaub. s fangt herzig ah und wird toxischer. cooli idee. if i were you suuper song. bi fan.

This album feels something of a refinement of 'Casanova'. It jettisons the more music-hall and cabaret moments for strings and crooning. And it generally works a treat. Full of many gems; concise; excellently orchestrated; yearning melodies; an oft left field turn of then pen that stops this being mawkish. An excellent outing.

i liked this, intense emotion shown on it and beautiful song structuring and performance

That was fun

A couple of great tunes

Absolute classic I love it

This was another great album from The Divine Comedy, especially from his output in the ’90s when he was probably at his peak. I’m usually not the first person to talk about vocals, since I’m more drawn to the music that surrounds them, but I have to admit, I really love his wordplay. On one side, it’s witty, smirky, and tongue-in-cheek. On the other, it’s suave, refined, theatrical, and delivered with sincerity. He’s very articulate and precise, yet still playful. He truly is one of a kind, and let’s just say, if I was Scott Walker, he’d definitely get my approval.

A do have a soft spot for The Divine Comedy. Neil Hannon is a wonderful writer

He wasn't lying, it was a short album about love

I was hoping it was going to be a little more... emo? I had never heard of this album and it seemed like something that a lot of what I like to listen to would be based off but it was a little too grandiose in a way... But still good!

I was not aware of this band. I am now enlightened; this was an enjoyable listen for me. I didn’t know chamber pop was a genre, but I’m into it. Reminds me of Prefab Sprout.

This was a surprise for me. Quite enjoyed it

i quite enjoyed it ngl

Devilishly well written songs which seem to revel in their own cleverness. Interwoven with covert humor one could easily miss on their first go around. Delightful.

i was rocking with this

It was really short, but i think it was alright. The soundscape of the album was luscious, it was pretty cool. 7/10

Late 90s alt pop. Irish chamber pop. Big orchestra, monumental passages. Theatrical.

It was vary good beautiful voice and would lissen again

Otro enorme compositor, Neil Hannon. Tiene ese sentido negro del humor tan inglés por el que nunca se le ha tomado todo lo en serio que debería, tal vez ni él mismo. Solo por el Te Amo España de su alter-ego Eduardo Maldonado Castellano De La Cruz o por Mar-a-Lago By The Sea de su último álbum, ya merece estar en este listado. Este es uno de sus mejores discos (Absent friends de 2004 también podría serlo), escrito en su mayor parte al mismo tiempo que el anterior Casanova (el de "Something for the weekend"o "Becoming more like Alfie") pero de forma mucho más breve y eficiente: durante las pruebas de sonido de sus conciertos. Se trata de un disco mejor, no parece hecho con prisas sino con talento a borbotones. Publicado lógicamente el día de San Valentín se tata de un disco acompañado nada más y nada menos orquesta de 30 miembros llamada The Brunel Ensemble. La apertura no es la más representativa, In pursuit of Happiness no en absoluto un tema desdeñable (ecos de Gershwin? algún resto aún de Nyman?) pero Everybody Knows (Except You) y Someone ponen las cosas en orden. Cuerdas, buena instrumentación, orquestación excelsa (I'm All You Need), ecos de Bacharach, Scott Walker o los The Smiths de Strangeways... Someone podría estar en Coles Corner de Richard Hwaley , otro genio. If... es una de sus mejores canciones. If i were you, es de las más representativas del disco, condensa todo su sonido. El cierre con I'm All You Need es fabuloso: al nivel de Pulp??? Se hace corto, en realidad es corto, 7 temas, pero podrían ser 20 más y no hacerse largos. Para serio ya estaba Nick Cave, para delicado ya estaba Stu Murdoch con los Belle and Sebastian pero para todo ya estaba Hannon.

A nice solemn love album. Short and sweet.

Great album

By the start of the second track, I wrote down on a piece of paper "PLEASE GOD BE GOOD". It was a little prayer I felt that I had to say. I was so let down by The Flaming Lips' Yoshimi and the Beatles' White Album this week, I really needed a win. I'm a big fan of Arcade Fire and Black Country New Road. A British Art Pop/Baroque Pop album with theatrical vocals? This should be right up my alley. I love this album. The only complaint I have is the lyrics are repetitive. But, I was so enthralled by the orchestrations and Neil's vocals that I needed to hear more, so I went to listen to some other Divine Comedy and...wow. Just wow. Its not going to be a band I listen to all the time, but it scratches an itch. Its like Jethro Tull but more contemporary. Its like Arcade Fire but more clean. And there's so much to the Divine Comedy discography, I can't wait to consume it. I think this album is probably only a 4 for me, objectively, but wow did I love it. I can't wait to hear the rest of The Divine Comedy discography!

While they’ve never been one of my big favourites, I’ve always enjoyed The Divine Comedy. I started listening to them when I was 7-8 years old once I found out Neil Hannon did all the music for Father Ted, best comedy series ever made lol. As for the album itself, I do really like it but I think Fin de Siècle would’ve been a better choice for inclusion. It has their biggest hit in National Express and one of their best songs overall in Sunrise. Top Track - Everybody Knows (except you)

"if you were a horse i would clean the crap out of your stable" Oh wow... I have never heard of this dude before, i love this!

Everybod Knows, If, hold the whole thing together. Full of orchestral flourishes, wanders all over the place. Good.

I wasn’t expecting to, but I really enjoyed it. It wasn’t a 5, or anything, but I sure did like it a 4 amount.

Glorious album!

I had never heard of The Divine Comedy before listening to this album. Going in, I only knew that this crooner was recorded live with a 30-piece orchestra. This record is a majestic, romantic, corny masterpiece. I'm not familiar enough with the influences of chamber pop to evaluate "A Short Album" in any kind of context. It sounds like uber-romantic British TV ballads from the '60s. The lyrics are sappy and silly. The execution is dead serious. I love that combination. I'll seek out more releases by The Divine Comedy. I have no idea what their more conventional albums sound like, but I don't see myself digging too deeply if the rest of their catalog sounds like this, but A Short Album about Love was enjoyable, and I can imagine myself listening to this one again and again. Four stars.

Lotta fun! Scratchin' that Schlager itch!

The last album I listened to was "Phaedra" by Tangerine Dream which is a weird, experimental German electronic album. The title, I assume refers to the Cretan princess from greek mythology, but why? I couldn't possibly say. This album on the other hand is exactly what it says on the tin! At just 31 minutes and full of love songs, theres no denying that this is indeed a short album about love. Look, I should probably talk a bit about the album, tell you that it was good, some decent chamber pop, yada, yada, yada... Nobody cares. This is the most factually accurate title on the list. I would give it a perfect score for the accuracy of the title if that's what this were about.

I don’t really know why it’s rated so low, it’s pretty good

Not bad, not my cup of tea per se.

I enjoyed this one quite a bit more than the previous TDC album I heard, so that's a marked improvement.

I liked it 👍🏻👍🏻

I have never heard this artist, and it's a perfect fit for listening while I work. Glad to find it...

It was funny and touching lyric by places and I liked it!

This album surprised me, I really enjoyed it

I have no idea what that was but it sure was good.

Wow, the reviews for this are so harsh and seem to focus on a couple of lyrics as being weird for an album of live songs. Maybe it’s a culture thing, with Americans not quite getting the very British sense of humour here - in the UK, the Divine Conedy are probably best known for the theme music to Father Ted and a song about the general cranes of travelling by coach. Anyway, this album is really good, gentle, thoughtful pop, and deserves your time.

This is lovely. I especially like the instrumentation.

Not really getting the hate for this. Nice luxe indie-pop with all the extra orchestral instruments you could want. Cohesive set of tunes, lasted half an hour. Smashing

I liked it

Pretty good, I listened to it a few times. Reminds me of Tom Waits, a bit.

I have never in my life heard of this guy, but he scratches a Morrisey itch and, as far as I know, is much less insufferable.

Pretty interesting, like edgy crooning

ts is so majestic holy i like everyone knows

Highlight Song/s: Someone This sounds like music from a soundtrack of a movie that features a man staring out at sea at night-time with some light left from a moon that is particularly bright, and which he has very, VERY strong longing feelings that he needs to convey via singing.

If into if I were you is great. Whole album was much better than I thought I’d think of it

J’ai eu l’impression de regarder un film en écoutant cet album

Best: If... Worst: Everybody knows Liked songs: 7/7, 100% Light 4 If Engelbert Humperdink had access to more modern music tools and was obsessed with horses for some reason and im here for it. Obviously not the most revolutionary album in terms of lyrics, but they're fun and I think the arrangements are overall really good. Fun album, though I can see how its polarizing.

I gotta say, I really disliked the other Divine Comedy album I had earlier on in the project, "Casanova." I thought it was strange, somewhat tone deaf, and overall just a weird flop of an album that combined a lot of ideas and one persona into an album and just was off-putting. This was very different. This was their follow up album to "Casanova," and the energy and feel is still light and fun, but feels tighter and more directed. Maybe I've heard more music of a similar ilk since and am more willing to buy into the concept and just go with it. Maybe I was in a bad mood the day I heard "Casanova." I don't know. But this was a great listen. Neil Hannon's voice is captivating. It walks the line of corny character actor and geuine performance at the same time and does so brilliantly. "Everybody Knows (except you)" is insanely catchy and I could still sing it days later after only listening once. The string and horn arrangements are wonderful, and really had a fullness to the sound that ties the album together. I loved the guitar work too. I dunno what it is about the sound, but I adore it on this album in a way I didn't on "Casanova." I really wanted to give it five stars. But I can't. It does meander a little bit for me ("Timewatching," for one) and it does feel a littttttle corny in places. I think that's a symptom of the era, the influences, and the genre. But still, it's there. Overall, a very surprising four stars. I'd love another album just like this. Standout Tracks: In Pursuit of Happiness, Everybody Knows (except you), I'm All You Need

This was the guy that wrote the songs for the Wonka film. A set of lush produced love songs, with quirky lyrics.

i'm sure it's fine but i must be aromantic because what the heck are some of these lyrics lmao

Despite the fact that, if I could sing, play and write songs I'd want to be in a band more like Siouxsie and the Banshees, I was pre-disposed to like this, because The Divine Comedy are the lovely bunch of Northern Irishmen who gave us the splendid National Express (which, I note, features on the album that followed this one). And, by halfway through track three (Someone), I'd given myself over to the lush arrangements, even enjoying the fact that Neil seems at times to be channelling Tony Christie or Herb Alpert. What's not to like about an album about love, filled with wistfulness and melancholy combined with daft lyrics. I'm not sure when I'd put this on, but hurrah that, in the UK, we can deliver poignancy with a sense of silliness. *PS as to why he writes like this, I've just read that it's partly to "escape" memories of a childhood spent in Northern Ireland during the troubles. So, he's definitely entitled to be daft if he wants. PPS Someone. What a great track.

3.75 rounded up to a 4 Surprised at how much I enjoyed this, since the last Divine Comedy album on this list I could take our leave. I think this helped being a little more fully realized, the orchestrations were lusher, his voice was better, and also, maybe most importantly, the album was a lot shorter!!! But also, let’s be real, no need for two Divine Comedy albums on this list ever. Just make it this one, the better one, and take that other one out!

good

Reminds me of Jens Lekman and also Alan Partridge. I mostly know this guy as the writer of 'My Lovely Horse' so it was nice to hear him return to the equine motif. I like that he's the dude who writes horse songs. Someone’s gotta do it. It’s the sort of album I'd grab a song from if I was making a mix CD for my wife and needed some levity amidst the more severe stuff. It’s cute in its absurdity, love songs that would only be sung as a little inside joke.

That version of Fever was anemic lol

This is a grower. A couple of listens in and I got it. Would like to listen to more of them

Beautiful

I really dig this one. Great instrumentation, catchy songs, cute and funny lyrics but not cringe-inducing. Good stuff.

Love finding artists I'm not familiar with who fit a style I generally love.

До крипового смазливые, сальные песни про Любовь. Ну, если Любовь, то только такая. Лучшая песня - Everybody Knows (Except You).

A very unique version of a love ballad album. 7/10

a lovely and relaxing album

Perfectly encapsulates how it feels to be stuck in a one sided situationship with an emotionally unavailable person (every waking hour of my life)

This feels like an album out of it's time. It has an older vibe even though it was released in 1997. You can tell that they had fun making it, at 30 mins or so it is indeed a short album. I'm going to give it another listen because I'm still not sure what to make of it

This was so much better than I expected. Operatic witty and emotional

This was good I really enjoyed the album

I live Divine Comedy a lot, and especially the big hits. They unabashedly awkward, fey and twee, which I enjoy. He's a little much a bit of the time, Neil Hannon, and I have a strong feeling that I wouldn't want to go for too many pints with him, but he can certainly deliver lovely tunes.

I’ve never heard of this, and the brief description didn’t prepare me for what was to come. This album is right up my musical alley. I’m a sucker for show tunes, regardless if they’re from an actual musical. I really like his voice and the instrumentation was very listenable. “Everybody Knows (Except You)” is now on my favorites playlist. I say this often, but records like this are what I love about doing the album a day exercise. I never would’ve heard it otherwise.

I don't know much about this artist, but this album somehow sounds both campy and earnest at the same time. Blending modern chamber pop with 80s ballad style music supports the premise well. I don't know if I'll listen to this again, but I did find it enjoyable in a quirky unique way.

Alright, I'm making a real push to catch up again. Excited that this album lives up to its title. A tight 30 good be great. Let's get into it! Listening notes: -A little theatrical on our first track. And a little schmaltzy. Could be fun, could be annoying. -Think I'm enjoying my first listen. "Someone" is doing it for me Review: A little dramatic for my tastes but pretty and pleasant with a couple solid tracks. And short. I'll round 3.5 to 4 again, on account of the tightness of the album.

I think it is genuinely difficult for men to write love songs that aren't overly trite and schmaltzy. The Divine Comedy does a pretty decent job of doing it in this one. There are a few lines that go a bit too far over that line into cringe turf, but he just comes across as earnest in his intent. And as the youths will tell us, earnestness leads to cringe. I'm also a sucker for chamber pop and orchestral backing. This album has it in spades. So overall, I'd give this 4.5 stars, rounding down to 4 though for that horse line. You know the one.

A man who years is a man who earns. I think Irish men invented yearning or something. The instrumentals are so beautiful, especially the intro to timewatching.

short and sweet

Damn OTT orchestrations and lush Neil Hannon vocals are triggering quite a few here. The writer of the Father Ted theme and My Lovely Horse will forever get respect at mine, and these are just great Divine Comedy songs.

Nice

Divine comedy manages to strike a chord of sardonic humor that resonates in ways other heartbreak albums just don't; the song writing is witty and vocal delivery manages to be varied and engaging. While a bit over produced, the tracklist is tight and cohesive making the album quite enjoyable

I listened to this twice. The first time, I kind of liked it but I found it a little old fashioned and a little cringy in how dramatic it is (especially some of the lyrics in "If..."). On a second listen, I was in a mood better suited to leaning in to the drama of it, and my response to the music was totally transformed. What before had seemed cringy and overwraught now seemed romantic and sweeping. The orchestration is lush and has a grandeur that fits the dramatic lyrics perfectly. The singing is great too; the style sits between Englebert Humperdink and Dusty Springfield. Enough songs failed to resonate with me that I can't give this 5 stars, but I would definitely listen to some of these songs again

This was another great album from The Divine Comedy, especially from his output in the ’90s when he was probably at his peak. I’m usually not the first person to talk about vocals, since I’m more drawn to the music that surrounds them, but I have to admit, I really love his wordplay. On one side, it’s witty, smirky, and tongue-in-cheek. On the other, it’s suave, refined, theatrical, and delivered with sincerity. He’s very articulate and precise, yet still playful. He truly is one of a kind, and let’s just say, if I was Scott Walker, he’d definitely get my approval.

Once again an album, or even a band, I didn't know that turned out to be a pleasant surprise. I guess I did know 'Everybody knows' (except you)', that must have been on the playlist of the alternative music station I listened to anno 1997. It's not the best song of the album, that's beyond doubt 'Someone'. Closing track 'I'm all you need' is also a gem. The music is very Scott Walker-like. Just a little less edge to it, except 'Someone' - that's why it's the best track of the album. In its weaker moments it also reminds you of Neil Diamond and even John Barry-style James Bond songtracks. Weak point is 'Wimewatching' - it never comes off the ground. It grew on my every time I listened to it. So yeah, good album.

Os arranjos orquestrais são ótimos, composições doces, emotivas, algo old fashioned, "Barcharachesco", soa televisivo (tipo séries antigas), o rapaz tem um vozeirão, surpreendente. Curti a banda! 4 estrelas.

I enjoyed this a lot more than I thought I would. I naively assumed that The Divine Comedy were a comedy music group, considering their name and that the only song I knew before now was "National Express". The music (and particularly the singing) put me in mind of The Walker Brothers, and I think this is supported by their cover of 'Make It Easy On Yourself' (on the expanded version of this album). The style is a kind of baroque pop which I didn't realise had made it out of the 60s, but I like it. All that being said, it seems unlikely I'll ever listen to this again.

4/5

Liked this one quite a bit.

Unlike, seemingly, the majority of the people who are on this website I’m totally on this band’s wavelength. Irreverent, operatic, and fun. Totally my jam. 4/5

I know two divine comedy songs and love one of them, neither are on this album so. Will his voice get annoying? Will this be another thumbs down for 1997? Let's find out. He.. I'm finding out his name hang on. Neil Hannon does have the kind of voice you could hang your whole sound on and neglect the rest but he doesn't there's some big sound going on. Strings always a plus. If.. is very beautiful and weird and I've just deleted the end of this sentence bc I once again started talking about andy robertson after hearing the word Dog. If I Were You actually deeply lovely. Time watching less so just not my bag it's too much. I'm all you need Massive i love this. Yeah i like this a lot. I got interrupted a couple of times so missed some bits but thats a great excuse to come back to it. His voice is a bit too Big and Baritone on some songs as i thought but it's also what I wish I could sing like. You can tell this is a proper little weirdo music nerd at work and that's leading me to bring out the direct comparison to Pulp.

If + If I Were You WOW. On repeat

I do not know if we needed two Divine Comedy albums in this book. I did enjoy Casanova and I am sure the crooning is only for certain individuals. I tend to enjoy it mostly, especially on Especially on Everybody Knows That I Love You, which is a great track. Still, Casanova was a great example of what this band does and the inclusion of the orchestra on this one doesn't necessarily merit the inclusion of both albums. No one can claim the Divine Comedy is guilty of false advertising. This is a Short Album about Love and it is definitely a short album that is about love. I liked pretty much every song here, which surprised me. Still, not sure if both albums should be in this book. Fun crooning though!

Neil Hannon is clearly a lovely talented man. I probably wouldn't have this on the list myself, but I'm never disappointed when The Divine Comedy appears on my rotation. "Everybody Knows" in particular is an absolutely glorious piece of wistful pop

Very good. When the recommended track after the album is finished is a Radiohead track

A theatrical and well performed singer songwriter album. I'm shocked I had not heard of this guy before.

i don't know if it's ironic or sincere scott walker worship but it's quite good

Good chamber pop, even better lyrics. Improves on relistens, worth checking out the rest of his work

4/5

There's something very calming about this

In a way, this album reminds me of Pulp. Obviously, the vocal style is different, but there are many aspects that feel similar, from the direct and wry lyrics that have some dark humor and romanticism, which also reminds me of Magnetic Fields. I know I have heard The Divine Comedy before, maybe even this album, but I never really got into them. I definitely want to listen to more of their albums, though, after this one. Ultimately, this album doesn't jump out and scream, "One of the greatest albums of all time," to me. However, it is very good, and I could see this being an album that will instantly connect with some people and grow on others and be an album a lot of people would go back to over and over due to the lyrics.

One of my favorite discoveries so far with this project. It reminds me of early Scott Walker, especially Scott II which is also on this list. I enjoyed the focused theme, brevity (I love sub 40 minute albums), and the cohesiveness of the record. Opening track is outstanding.

Theatrical, tender, maybe even a little silly? Doesn't matter. Nice digestible album of love songs with a great flow to it.

This was an interesting listen, and I sent this to my college kid thinking they might like it. Overall I enjoyed it, and laughed at some of the wacky lyrics. Maybe a 4?

This really seems like an album I should not like it's very theatrical has a very '60s movie theme feel to it. Almost a Tom Jones or Petula Clark feel. I don't think I really like his voice or don't think that it's outstanding at least. But Man, the songs and the production really bring me in. The second time around probably even more so because I really was able to kind of listen to his lyrics and they were so tongue and cheek I find myself laughing and it really fitting the theatrical music around it. The song "If..." has got to be the strangest set of lyrics for a simple love song I have ever heard in my life and I was just about howling listening to them. (9.3) ★★★★½

Hesvy orchestration, crooning voice and 50s/60s influences, reminds me a bit of Richard Hawley in the 00s. 4 stars

Croonerpop

Another great, if a bit odd, product from The Divine Comedy. Not quite feeling the full 5 stars for this one, but very close.

4/5. I appreciate the very tongue in cheek and non-serious lyrics under a backdrop of classical pop. With a voice like Frank Sinatra, it's funny to hear curse words and hear ideas and thoughts we have all had, and then some weird ones, about love. There are self-deprecating lyrics here as well which still feel relatable while also fitting in a concert hall with a big band. He does not take himself seriously at all and anyone who does when listening is not getting it. The instrumentation is simple, not deviating much. By the end, it feels like I need to look around to see if I need to give a standing ovation, but like an awkward one. A great album, even if some songs sound a little too similar. Best Song: Everybody Knows (Except You), If I Were You (I'd Be Through With Me), If...

Really funny really clever album that pokes fun at every love song that’s every existed

I actually enjoyed this album way more than I expected. Well done.

Vocals, at times, reminded me of Neil Diamond - in a good way. Soaring strings, lots of drama.

Hieno ääni ja ylipäätään komea kutulevy.

Having already had a sample of TDC's music by seeing their contributions to the Ute Lemper album I got a while back, I was excited to get a proper album of theirs, especially with how short this is (the title is not a lie thank god). The sound of Neil Hammond's voice is simply wonderful, perfectly melodic and fitting the old styles of baroque pop and some chamber pop without feeling too saccharine or overwrought which is usually why I never quite click with either genre. I think the briefness and simplicity of the music makes the whole love theme and love emotions feel more interesting and fun that they otherwise would. Honestly feeling like digging into this band more so far they've been a treat for a genre that I don't care for much

Got nervous after seeing some of the reviews, but I was pleasantly surprised with this. Brand new to me, I was into the strange comedic lyrics, very well produced, this is much more solid album than the ratings give it credit for. 3.75/5

This album is fantastic! "If..." was my favorite. The lyrics are great - weird and dry. It's a nice change of pace. I imagine seeing this performed on a stage off broadway.

It is pretty silly, but I found it charming. And it delivers on the title.

I can’t help but like this a lot.

Só conhecia The Divine Comedy pelo nome. Foi uma agradável surpresa.

I do love Neil Hannon. His voice and his humour always win me over.

I feel like this album is a big joke that nobody is getting. Sure it's not particularly funny, but it has it's moments both good and bad (not one but two songs about how your girlfriend would be happier as a dog). I guess the point it's trying to satirize is that heaps of love songs are creepy and stalkerish. Reading the review in the book, seems like it's gone over most peoples heads.

Somehow have never heard of this guy despite his music being very up my alley. Love a concept album and this one def hits me in my new wave/emo heart.

Enchanting songs. It sounds like Casanova, but a little less intense. The production is lovely. The Divine Comedy is one of the artists i now listen to when i want to feel like Oscar Wilde.

Интересная музыка, со своим настроением

Whatever, I enjoyed this.

No idea why the rating for this one is so low and so many people are having negative reactions to it. This album has some of the most unique and interesting string parts and vocal melodies I've heard from this list in a long time. Mid 4.

At just 32 minutes, A Short Album About Love doesn’t waste a second, delivering a tightly packed exploration of romance in all its glory and folly. It's witty, theatrical, and deeply heartfelt—a testament to The Divine Comedy's talent for making the grandest emotions feel intimate.

It’s amazing what good, honest songwriting can do! To be so for real, I thought I was losing my mind when I realized I was enjoying A Short Album About Love. Casanova is maybe one of the worst albums I’ve ever heard in my life, and easily the low point of this list so far; a brief revisit only solidified that opinion. But aside from his vocal tone, there’s almost no similarities between this record and its predecessor. While Casanova insisted on forced bells and whistles, A Short Album About Love keeps it classic, and that restraint is a large reason why this works. I also this The Divine Comedy’s voice is more fitting of this traditional pop sound than his suave ‘90s melodrama. But also, the difference is that this record has some great songs on it! I think “Everybody Knows (Except You),” “If…,” and especially “If I Were You (I’d Be Through With Me)” are all brilliant, well-written, funny yet honest, and just catchy as hell, based on the fact that I’ve been humming them for days. It’s not to say that the other tracks are bad, because they aren’t; I may not personally love the slow pace of “Timewatching” or the more eclectic “In Pursuit of Happiness,” but they’re all enjoyable while showing a lot more maturity and restraint than anything on Casanova. Now, don’t get me wrong, The Divine Comedy’s lyrics are still dripping in post-ironic ‘90s irony, which can be annoying, but I think there’s a deeper, more sincere level of self-deprecating reflection that makes these tracks work. A love song by a weirdo who knows he’s not worth loving is interesting, and an improvement over forced machismo. It’s also a lot more tolerable when it’s 7 songs and 30 minutes, which is a huge strength of this album. Overall, I know this is pastiche. I know it’s inessential. I know I could easily apply a lot of the same criticisms I had to his previous entry to this. But somehow, this little record won me over. It’s fun, it’s got some good songs, and it’s a quick listen. It might not be influential or important, but an ear worm is an ear worm is an ear worm, and considering how short this record is, it’s got an extremely high hit rate.

A refreshing take on the easy-listening genre. Truly an easy listen for me. Its beautiful arrangements, pacing of the album and overall melancholy speak to me the most. It brings honor to the name Divine Comedy.

I hadn't heard of The Divine Comedy before. From what I can gather, they are a chamber pop group from Northern Ireland, whose sole constant member is frontman Neil Hannon. What I will say about A Short Album About Love is that I can accept it for what it is—a farce. Think about it—Neil was able to pen seven songs with various jokes themed around the pursuit of love, with Joby Talbot's orchestral compositions ebbing and flowing in the background. I couldn't help but laugh at some of these lines like addressing the obliviousness of the partner on "Everybody Knows (Except You)" with "I told all of my friends again and again and again/I drove them 'round the bend, so now you're my only friend", or how one of the various allusions the narrator could make to show their affection on "If..." was "If you were a horse/ I'd clean the crap out of your stable/And never once complain." He's taking the piss and I can accept that as the intent. I wouldn't say this album is all that mind-blowing in its execution, given how prevalent comedy music acts have become since. Plus, I can accept that humor like music is subjective, and not every line will land well. Regardless, I had fun with this album, and it is indeed short as it does not overstay its welcome past half an hour. Give it a shot.

I liked this one! I haven't checked this album out before although I've heard a couple of songs from it before. Someone is a fav. I love Neil Hannon's voice.

At first, the album felt a little overly melodramatic. But then "If..." came on, and WOW. I understand that a lot of these songs were released as b-sides, and it was a very spontaneous type of thing. But it really doesn't feel like, it feels a lot more rehearsed. I think that if the album was shorter, I might not have been so up for the album. But it gets in, hits the feels, and gets back out again. I did feel a few of the songs were a little pedestrian, like "Everybody Knows (Except You)". But for the most part, simple can be pretty effective. Top tracks: "If...", "Timewatching"

After an earlier album by The Divine Comedy (Casanova) I had added their albums to favorites for future listening. Then sometime ago I was watching some DVDs I hadn't watched for several years one of them being "When Brendan Met Trudy" which features the first track on this album "In Pursuit of Happiness" So I had already listened to this album. Liked it just as much as "Casanova".

Love this album and the classic sound because the vocals remind me of Sinatra. I am a fan of ballads and crooning vocals, so this was a pleasant listen. Great vibe and use of an orchestra. The lyrics are silly, but with love songs, you gotta be unique sometimes lol

so this is what father john misty sounds like to guys who still talk about social justice warriors 8/10

Lovely

Actually vraiment bon. On dirait de la musique de film.

I love Divine Comedy but this is a really odd 2nd pick, it's not that different to Casanova and not as strong throughout. One of my least favourite DC albums actually. Of course, I still like it. Should have included Fin de Siecle or Regeneration. Or even Absent Friends. Only really In Pursuit of Happiness (remember when that was the new theme to Tomorrow's World?) and Timewatching (which is an old song anyway) stand out. I do like how If takes a horrendously sinister turn at the end. All these one star reviews though, what do you people want?

Mostly ballads but with some rock influences here and there. It also felt a little tongue in cheek with some of the humor. Overall a good listen all the way through.

Fíla þessa vel. Enn betur í öðru rennsli heldur en því fyrsta.

Jacques Brel meets the Magnetic Fields = my kind of music

7.5/10 One of the kings of chamber/baroque pop. Hannon is a treasure. Excellent album, beautiful instrumentation, great songs, great singing. Best : In Pursuit of Happiness

I liked this one a little better than Casanova. Probably a 3.5 but I'll give it the benefit of the doubt. The songs were easy to catch the meaning of, the album was consistent but approached love from different directions in each song. If... felt dated and tacky, I'm All You Need was my favourite song.

This was a surprisingly fantastic album. A beautiful voice that deserves an orchestral backing and music that holds the two together in simple, but feeling filled songs of love. Definitely a surprise. Definitely recommended.

first listen a grandiose album, although short

A side didn’t catch my attention but the b side had my jaw on the floor. 👍

Very good production and music and mostly clever lyrics imo. It‘s only 30 minutes long, so I will definitely will give it another listen or two.

Really good

Chamber pop, baroque pop. An interesting album, very lush and romantic. I had a great time but nothing really stands out, just a solid album. 4/5

Surprisingly, a four. I think it hit a grandiose stride and I liked it a lot.

This kinda stuff is jut really up my alley sometimes, y'know? This orchestral pop crooner thing. I'unno. I mean, don't get me wrong, it's more Bublé than Sinatra, and it wears out a quite bit during the last half of the album, but I found the first half just so much fun and the record (true to its word) is pretty short anyway at only half an hour, so I'm still able to come out of this saying I dig it. And the first track, melodically, really sounded to me like it could be sung by the guy from Sparks, and that's a non-zero factor.

Tender, poignant, and humorous. Scott Walker could have learned a lot from this guy.

Lovely music, some wacky lyrics. My first thought was omg this is Irish Scott Walker. And then it occurred to me that the Magnetic Fields made a similar concept album (69 Love Songs). This album came out first, though, so maybe the Magnetic Fields took the idea as a challenge (how many songs can *you* write about love?) and dropped the mic with a 3 volume album clocking in at almost 3 hours long . Okay, that's about a different album, but my point is, if this album inspired Stephin Merritt, it gets props from me. Sure, I have never actually listened to the whole 3 hours of 69 Love Songs, but I love what I have heard. Ooh interesting tidbit - I am seeing on the Wiki page that one of this album’s bonus tracks is actually a Magnetic Fields cover. AND 69 Love Songs is on the list so we’ll all get to listen at some point 👏👏👏

decent enough, short albums are always a plus too

I quite enjoyed this. Instrumentation kept me interested, and the tone seemed playful and joyful when it needed to, and morose at other times. Reminded me of Pulp in a lot of ways.

I see that this album is not very popular and do I think that this album is a masterpiece? No, not at all. However, I felt it to be kind of tongue and cheek at times which I appreciated and I'll admit that it was an entertaining listen. You know, I really loved the ending of "I'm All You Need" and I was a big fan of the horse element. Really added another level of charm. I've already said this but I really wish there were half star ratings because I would give this a 3 1/2 stars but I'm tired and don't have much time to think so I'll round it up to a 4 because life is short and I have no time to be a hater!

Lately, it feels as though I've been wandering through a desert of 2-star albums. It has left me yearning for something to quench my thirst for musical creativity and depth. "A Short Album About Love" by The Divine Comedy appeared as an oasis in this landscape, offering a refreshingly unique sound that I wasn't at all prepared for upon my first listen. The album's distinctiveness caught me off guard, prompting not one, not two, but three successive playthroughs to fully immerse myself in it. The Divine Comedy is undeniably niche, blending quirky lyrics with compositions that stand out from the mainstream offerings. The lyrics, while unusual, have a wit and charm that is amusing. As for the lead singer's voice, it certainly made an impression. His vocal quality occasionally brought Morrissey to mind, yet there was something uniquely compelling about his delivery that stood out on its own. Calling this album "stunning" might seem like high praise, yet it feels wholly appropriate given the experience it provides. "A Short Album About Love" isn't just a collection of songs; it's a journey that surprises, delights, and challenges its listeners. While its distinct sound and unconventional lyrics might not cater to everyone's tastes, for those willing to dive into its depths, the album proves to be a rich, rewarding experience. Favourite Tracks: In Pursuit of Happiness, Everybody Knows (Except You)

I suppose your liking for this can be broken down to your tolerance for: a) The sweeping, orchestral Big Pop sounds of the 1960s, and; b) Neil Hannon's oaken, stentorian baritone, an eccentric and seemingly anachronistic voice for the time of the Divine Comedy's pomp. If you like both - and I do - there's much to enjoy here. It's graverobbing, undoubtedly, but the larceny is done with immense brio and elegance. A dialled-down Hannon evens sounds tender on 'Timewatching', and would you believe it? It's beautiful. Any road, I'm always going to look favourably on the composer of 'My Lovely Horse'.

This is decent, very dramatic and a bit soap opera-esque. The lyrics don't do the album too many favors, as I am sure others have noted. I did like it overall, and it is short enough to not overstay its welcome. Looking at the artist's information, it seems he also wrote songs for the recent Wonka movie, which feels appropriate with these songs.

I listened to this multiple times thinking it might change my like to a love...I just never got there...

I adore this man's talent! Fun writing, creative sounds, and through the test of time! I like the other stuff too

Really good band.

will revisit this

A Short Album About Love is a mini-album by The Divine Comedy, released in 1997 as a companion piece to their previous album Casanova. The album consists of seven songs, all of which are about different aspects of love, such as happiness, longing, regret, jealousy, and devotion. The album was recorded live with a 30-piece orchestra, giving it a rich and lush sound that contrasts with the witty and ironic tone of Casanova. The album opens with In Pursuit of Happiness, a cheerful and upbeat song that celebrates the joy of finding love and being loved. The song features a catchy chorus and a playful piano solo, as well as some humorous references to pop culture and literature. The singer, Neil Hannon, expresses his gratitude and optimism for his relationship, singing "I've got the world on a string / And I'll do anything / To be with you". The second song, Everybody Knows (Except You), is a more melancholic and tender ballad that deals with the insecurity and doubt that often accompany love. The song is about a man who is deeply in love with a woman, but is afraid to confess his feelings because he thinks she doesn't feel the same way. The song has a simple and elegant melody, supported by a gentle string arrangement and a soft drum beat. The singer, with his deep and expressive voice, conveys his frustration and longing, singing "Everybody knows I love you / Everybody knows I need you / Everybody knows I do / Except you". The third song, Someone, is a dramatic and passionate song that explores the theme of obsession and infatuation. The song is about a man who is so consumed by his love for a woman that he loses his sense of self and reality. The song has a powerful and soaring chorus, accompanied by a majestic orchestral crescendo and a thundering drum roll. The singer, with his intense and operatic delivery, expresses his desperation and madness, singing "Someone, someone / I've got to find someone / Someone who'll be everything to me". The fourth song, If..., is a whimsical and romantic song that imagines various scenarios of love and happiness. The song is about a man who fantasizes about different ways of expressing his love for a woman, such as writing her a poem, taking her to Paris, or marrying her. The song has a charming and playful melody, enhanced by a lively flute solo and a cheerful trumpet section. The singer, with his smooth and crooning voice, expresses his creativity and affection, singing "If I wrote you a symphony / Just to say how much you mean to me / What would you do?". The fifth song, If I Were You (I'd Be Through With Me), is a sarcastic and self-deprecating song that acknowledges the flaws and failures of love. The song is about a man who realizes that he has been a bad partner and that he doesn't deserve the woman he loves. The song has a catchy and upbeat melody, contrasted by a bitter and ironic tone. The singer, with his witty and cynical voice, expresses his guilt and regret, singing "If I were you / I'd be through with me / I'd have told me where to go / A long, long time ago". The sixth song, Timewatching, is a nostalgic and sentimental song that reflects on the passage of time and the memories of love. The song is about a man who looks back on his life and his relationship with a woman, and how they have changed over the years. The song has a slow and graceful melody, complemented by a warm and soothing string section and a delicate piano accompaniment. The singer, with his soft and tender voice, expresses his nostalgia and gratitude, singing "Timewatching / We watch the time / And I love you more than I can say". The seventh and final song, I'm All You Need, is a confident and assertive song that declares the strength and endurance of love. The song is about a man who reassures his lover that he will always be there for her and that he is the only one who can make her happy. The song has a fast and energetic melody, driven by a pulsating bass line and a vibrant horn section. The singer, with his bold and charismatic voice, expresses his conviction and devotion, singing "I'm all you need / And I'm not afraid to say / You're the only one who can make me feel this way". A Short Album About Love is a diverse and impressive album that showcases the versatility and talent of The Divine Comedy. The album covers a wide range of emotions and styles, from the joyful and humorous to the sad and serious, from the simple and elegant to the complex and grandiose. The album is a testament to the power and beauty of love, in all its forms and facets. The album is a masterpiece of orchestral pop, and a must-listen for fans of The Divine Comedy and lovers of music in general.

I enjoyed this quite a bit and hadn't heard of them at all. I am chasing down their other stuff now.

This is a very appropriate album for Valentine’s Day, and it very much does what it says on the tin. Seven bitter sweet songs about love, with orchestral arrangements, clocking in at just over half an hour. This still has some of the quirkiness and humour of other songs by the Divine Comedy, especially the references to horses! If you were a horse I could ride you through the fields at dawn Through the day until the day was gone

It was pretty soothing, I liked it

I kinda dig it. It's a bit weird (the horse lyrics) At times but I dig that vocal style and it doesn't overstay its welcome. 3.5 rounded up.

Never heard of them, but has a classic rock feel. I liked it. Kind of a Doors vibe.

Man discusses his sexual fantasies involving animals over the Final Fantasy VII soundtrack. So cheesy and melodramatic that it loops back to being genius. Sinatra this, Scott Walker that, I don't remember either of them singing about how they'd clean your crap if an evil witch transformed you into a horse. I had a great time listening to this. Exactly as advertised, this is truly a short album about love. Underrated gem, dare I say.

i guess it really is a short album about love

Love with a restraining order.

Melodic, some lovely chord changes and really nicely produced. Almost crooner like in his vocals. Also, half an hour? Take 4 stars mate.

crazy song to start the album with. after the first 2 i thought it was going to be a 5 star but the rest weren’t as good. except for the last one. still super good though

A top tier Short Album About Love 'Everybody Knows (Except You)'

Man, that guy loves horses!

4.4 - never heard of this and absolutely loved it. Felt like a very random album for the 90s. Definitely will listen to more

Sounds big, like musical theatre. Most memorable lyric: “If you were a horse, I’d clean the crap out of your stable.”

lovely

A year ago I never heard of these guys, now I'm a fan. Really like the style and music! Standouts: Everybody Knows, If..., Someone, If I Were You, In Pursuit of Happiness, Timewatching, Favorite lyric: "If you were a tree, I could carve my name into your side, and you would not cry, cause trees don't cry," 4.5 / 5

This was pretty good

Beautiful record, uniquely recorded in the Royal Albert Hall. Never listened to them, and was quite surprised! Will sit down some more with their music 7,5 out of 10

Un espectacular album que recolecta increíbles canciones románticas. El sonido del álbum es intenso al igual que sus letras, evocativa a la música romántica clásica, pero con un tinte moderno que les quita la edad. No diría que es un indispensable, pero es un gran álbum.

I lapped this up in my youth and saw Divine Comedy tour with an orchestra to play these songs! Youthful optimism and naivety was attracted to these perfect notions of romance and love whilst Hannon’s wit slyly undercut the sincerity here and there. As for its inclusion here, I am unconvinced that it is an album you must listen to and there are other albums in Divine Comedy’s back catalogue which sums up baroque pop - Promenade is probably their most complete album, Casanova has the biggest hits and even more recent offering Victory For The Comic Muse is more enduring. But I can’t knock on DC and they meant a lot to me.

This was a very compelling album because honestly I don't think any other orchestral or chamber pop album I have ever heard sounded like this one. The vocals on this album feel like they are from Broadway in that they are so crisp and enunciated for better or for worse. It was a weird experience. It was like listening to an opera but without the annoying operatic singing. I kind of liked it but I really have not clue what situation I could possibly play this and it felt like the right music to play. It's an enigma. I did like it though. The only song I was not a fan of was the first song and the second song was meh but after that they rattle of five straight extremely grandiose songs that were extremely interesting to listen to. Still thinking of when I can listen to this outside of time where I am listening to music by myself but overall 8.5/10

I like it better than I thought I would.

Loved it

I listened to this once through and seriously thought, "What the hell did I just listen to?" And I was prepared to toss this on the pile of 1s. But our listening group figured out, this was kind of meant to be an over the top, comedic-leaning sort of endeavor. I gave it a second listen. Don't get me wrong, the album is still strange, but now that I know it's supposed to be strange, I think I actually like it.

Started this and thought I was going to hate it but it grew on me. Maybe part of me is being kind to this because I’m still recovering from the 80 minute Wilco album from yesterday. This is a unique album which makes it hard to compare to anything else. The theatrical orchestral music is what really saves this one for me. If the music was more traditional rock it wouldn’t have the same effect.

How is he so good and so fucking punchable at the same time?

som bem agradável

4.0

4 Good shit Hard choice

gran disco

why are all the reviews for this on this website so bad this album slaps. He does go on about the horses though

Grand, compelling and at the same time intimate, this album took me a few listens to get into. But the evening listen on the couch with a glass of wine caught the right mood.

liked

not the worst thing ive ever heard. this will prob grow on me but for now i stick with this rating. last three tracks are highlights.

Has some really good moments and also cringe moments

This one caught me by surprise. Though I'd probably never load this one up again, I enjoyed it.

название обещает альбом про любовь, я получил альбом про любовь музыкально это просто крепкая троечка, но я ощутил какой-то музыкальный концепт в этом. какое-то вот это торжество и пафос в конце каждый песни. невероятная яма на предпоследней песне. этот тот редкий случай, когда идея и концепт сильно добавляют альбому.

ну не короткий альбом же)) Но вокал очень мощный + приятные музыкальные партии с оркестром небольшим Алкоальбом: говорить о любви на крыше дома, попивая дешевое вино

Surprisingly good Album

If Jim Morrison, Elton John and David Bowie had a baby. Took a while to get into, but it’s actually good. Weird good.

What a lovely album... shades of 60s and Blur and Pulp. Will give TDC more time for sure

very good, unexpected gem. kind of a mellow sound.

I enjoyed this. Unique pop music and the singer was also good.

Certainly very short - about 30 minutes - but also very good. Neil Hannon is a great singer and lyricist, with a slightly skewed perspective on the world. Wonderful, if perhaps a bit one paced and similar sounding. I really liked it

It’s sort of histrionic and the lyrics are a bit silly but I got into the proto-elo vibe

Neil Hannon probably thinks he is very clever. That can be annoying sometimes. Here's the thing: like it or not, Neil Hannon is in fact very clever. Composition, arrangements, lyrics. And singing. It's all on point and creative. It's great

Just lovely, and exactly what it says it is. (The 2020 extended version has some noteworthy material but it makes it a not short album about love and that gets to my nerves)

Never heard of this before but pretty pleasantly surprised, really like the vibe and the orchestral bits really add something

honestly… i loved this album. usually this type of music (theatrey) is something i am SO against, but i kind of ignored the lyrics and just listened to the music and the trumpets made it sound so happy and it was just really fun.