Albums of the Year 2024 – Number 41 Camera Obscura presents Look to the East, Look to the West, a revelation in their discography. Led by Tracyanne Campbell, the band reunites with producer Jari Haapalainen to deliver their most sophisticated effort to date. This album holds a special place in the band’s history, being the most hard-fought project following the passing of founding keyboardist Carey Lander in 2015. The band went into an extended hiatus but made a powerful return after their performance at Belle & Sebastian’s 2019 Boaty Weekender cruise festival. With Donna Maciocia joining the lineup, Look to the East, Look to the West was recorded in the same room where Queen wrote “Bohemian Rhapsody,” giving it a grand and cinematic sound. This album sees Camera Obscura going back to basics, emphasizing piano, synthesizers, Hammond organ, and drum machines. The absence of string or brass arrangements and the departure from their traditional reverb-heavy style create a new sonic landscape for the band. Lead single “Big Love” showcases the band’s growth and confidence, blending country rock and prog elements with Campbell’s poignant vocals. The album is a reflection on love, loss, and the passage of time, leaving listeners both sad and exhilarated. Look to the East, Look to the West is a collection of 11 songs that capture the essence of Camera Obscura, offering a transformative listening experience that resonates with fans old and new.
