The Edge

Manchester Orchestra has changed their tone for the album Hope which in contrast from prior album, Cope, has a softer mellowed warm overall tone.  With the slower tempos, the listener really gets a chance to capture the lyrical emotions portrayed in the pieces. The album is their fifth studio album and is an acoustical remixed version of the earlier album, Cope. The acoustic versions of the songs show the deeper emotions that are hidden under the “Black and Red” color tone of the tracks on Cope. The notable track “Top Notch” on Cope shows the defensive shell that the gives the “nasty” feel singer Andy Hull intended. One the other hand, the track on Hope shows the vulnerable sensitive and emotional side to the lyrics. The harmony within the new versions create a haunting melody saturated in the raw feelings that anyone can relate to.  The band’s hard work, blood, sweat and tears have proved their worth by showing the versatile talent the band has; from the all-out rock, to dancing, to folk, and back again to grunge their melodies keep you tuned in to the end.  Hope is the completion of the two album set, and it showcases all of their bests. A tip of the cap to these gentlemen, for composing a moving and powerful narrative album, yet again.