Morning Phase – Beck

"Morning Phase" has already been described as a kind of sequel to "Sea Change", Beck's 2002 album classic. Also the line-up of "Morning Phase" is similar to that of "Sea Change": Musicians like Joey Waronker, Justin Meldal-Johnson, Smokey Hormel, Jason Falkner and Roger Joseph Manning Jr. will be there again.

The breathtaking harmonies, the exquisite songwriting of Beck and the amazing emotional effect of "Sea Change" are picked up by "Morning Phase" and at the same time they are inexorably surged ahead with infectious optimism. The new release marks the temporary climax of a breathtaking creative period. One can definitely say that the all-rounder has already had some highlights in his career.

In 2012, Beck published a lavishly illustrated book entitled "Song Reader", which contained the sheet music for 20 new, unpublished Beck songs to play yourself and inspired artists worldwide to leave their mark on the compositions.

The book also included a reinterpretation of David Bowie's "Sound + Vision" - including a 160-piece orchestra and an interactive 360° live recording In summer 2013 Beck released three highly acclaimed singles (digital and on 12" vinyl) - "Defriended", "I Won't Be Long" and "Gimmie".

Morning Phase" is the 12th album of Allrounder Beck and a quite thoughtful album

The newcomer offers 13 beautiful, perfectly formed songs from orchestrated folk, with the typical nebulous Beck vocals on top.

"Surprise: At first he didn't want to, now Beck delivers the best album since "Sea Change"." (Rolling Stone, March 2014)

"After many role-plays in the past you get the feeling for the first time to hear the true Beck: very nice." (Audio, May 2014)

AllMusic rating: