Alone in the Universe Jeff Lynne's ELO RCA Three stars
Alone in The Universe is a testament to fan power. After selling out a big London gig in less than an hour last summer, Jeff Lynne (whose band now performs under the mouthful of a moniker, Jeff Lynne's ELO) thought a new album might prove popular.
The warm reception given to Alone in The Universe is not only down to the 68-year-old's history – it also features a set of wonderfully rendered pop songs.
Lavish opener When I Was A Boy conjures the wide-eyed optimism of Wings-era Paul McCartney. Love and Rain rides on a smooth groove and shows that Lynne voice's hasn't lost its bluesy grit.
Fans of ELO's signature backing harmonies will enjoy Dirty to The Bone. The breezy track's sun-kissed harmonies juxtapose neatly with dark lyrics regarding a woman who will "drag you down until you drown in sorrow".
The only misfire is the title track, which sounds like the wrong side of the 1980s with lacklustre digital drums and bland synths. That aside, Alone in The Universe marks the welcome return of a pop craftsman.
artslife@thenational.ae
COMPANY PROFILE
Name: Kumulus Water
Started: 2021
Founders: Iheb Triki and Mohamed Ali Abid
Based: Tunisia
Sector: Water technology
Number of staff: 22
Investment raised: $4 million
Emergency
Director: Kangana Ranaut
Stars: Kangana Ranaut, Anupam Kher, Shreyas Talpade, Milind Soman, Mahima Chaudhry
Rating: 2/5
((Disclaimer))
The Liechtensteinische Landesbank AG (“Bank”) assumes no liability or guarantee for the accuracy, balance, or completeness of the information in this publication. The content may change at any time due to given circumstances, and the Liechtensteinische Landesbank AG is under no obligation to update information once it has been published. This publication is intended for information purposes only and does not constitute an offer, a recommendation or an invitation by, or on behalf of, Liechtensteinische Landesbank (DIFC Branch), Liechtensteinische Landesbank AG, or any of its group affiliates to make any investments or obtain services. This publication has not been reviewed, disapproved or approved by the United Arab Emirates (“UAE”) Central Bank, Dubai Financial Services Authority (“DFSA”) or any other relevant licensing authorities in the UAE. It may not be relied upon by or distributed to retail clients. Liechtensteinische Landesbank (DIFC Branch) is regulated by the DFSA and this advertorial is intended for Professional Clients (as defined by the DFSA) who have sufficient financial experience and understanding of financial markets, products or transactions and any associated risks.
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
Europe’s rearming plan
- Suspend strict budget rules to allow member countries to step up defence spending
- Create new "instrument" providing €150 billion of loans to member countries for defence investment
- Use the existing EU budget to direct more funds towards defence-related investment
- Engage the bloc's European Investment Bank to drop limits on lending to defence firms
- Create a savings and investments union to help companies access capital
