Shift These Thoughts
Comprising ten tracks, “Shift these thoughts” is the debut album from Heligoland and followed two well received 7″ singles released in 2001/2, and an EP in 2000.
“Shift these thoughts” is an apt title for the album, hinting at some of the qualities of the music contained within.
Album opener “Hobson’s Choice” is a song in the style Heligoland has made its trademark, unfolding gradually at a measured pace, with a minimal yet intricate musical backing and captivating vocals shifting between light and shade. “String Tree”, “Flat Four” and “Jasper Come Home” also exhibit the carefully crafted arrangements, subtle dynamic shifts and enchanting vocals for which the band is known.
Elsewhere the band explore other aspects of Heligoland’s sound such as on the melancholic, minimal “What was it worth?”, notable for the soaring vocals of singer Karen Vogt.
Heligoland’s music is often likened to a film score, a concept explored on several tracks presented here in greater depth than was possible on previous releases. “Cabo de Gata” is a captivating journey through dusty, sun bleached landscapes hinting at some of the band’s more abstract influences. Conversely, the glacial “Herringbone” explores the terrain and the pull of competing currents beneath the waves.
Heligoland and Big Rig Records parted ways in 2005 after the release of Shift These Thoughts. Heligoland now live and play in Paris.
