Bastille have long been a band with a knack for storytelling, but frontman Dan Smith’s solo project, '&' (Ampersand), has taken this to a new level. The series, which has captivated listeners with its intimate and often hushed soundworlds, reaches its poetic and poignant conclusion with the release of Part Four. The project as a whole has been an exploration of interconnectedness, a magical joining of lives and stories, much like the very symbol from which it takes its name.
Over the course of the four EPs, Smith has delved into the lives of a diverse cast of characters. From historical figures to mythical beings, from trailblazers to outsiders, the music has breathed new life into tales both familiar and forgotten. This unique approach is a stark but welcome contrast to the more anthemic sound Bastille is known for. Instead, the '&' series offers a more introspective and detailed glimpse into the human experience.
Part Four continues this narrative mission, weaving together disparate tales to create a cohesive whole. The EP opens with 'Bonnie & Clyde,' a modern reimagining of the outlaw couple's infamous romance. This is followed by 'Bathsheba & Him,' a powerful retelling of a biblical story that gives voice to a character often overlooked. The EP then takes a more personal turn with 'My Head & The Glass,' a deeply introspective track that digs into the complexities of the self. Finally, 'Bored & Overboard (Pandora’s Box)' offers a confessional wrapped in myth, exploring the consequences of curiosity and the release of chaos.
"The '&' project was a way for me to explore different ways of writing and collaborating, telling stories that feel like they're about someone else," Smith has said. This sense of stepping into another's shoes is palpable throughout the series. The EP also features bonus live recordings from Arte’s Turner Gallery sessions, which capture the raw emotion of the songs and highlight some of the project’s most striking moments. With Part Four, Smith closes this chapter, reminding listeners of the shared humanity that shimmers beneath the surface of every story, no matter how grand or small.
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