Bat For Lashes, AKA Natasha Khan, decided to isolate herself from the external pressures of those who expected a new hit in the vein of 2009’s ‘Two Suns’. The Brighton artist composed and recorded her new album ‘The Haunted Man‘ in the Umbria countryside and this decision appears to have benefited her work.
The Brighton native’s return is stripped (right down to the Mapplethorpe style cover) and inspired as can be heard on the beautiful ballad “Laura” (which continues a tradition of first name single titles) and the Gotye-esque “All Your Gold“.
All the usual elements of the Bat For Lashes sound are present; minimal Middle Eastern rhythmic patterns, subtle electronica bursts that never outstay their welcome and Khan‘s voice which, as displayed on the opening track “Lillies“, can truly be regarded as one of the best heirs to the throne of Kate Bush and Elizabeth Frazer.
This album can be considered a coming of age for Bat For Lashes succeeded in producing an album that is even more passionate and sincere than its predecessors pushing ‘The Haunted Man‘ amongst the best, and possibly the very finest, release of her short discography.
