Roots & Echoes is a musical rite of passage for The Coral, a gem unearthed almost ten years in the making.  Having gone through their experimental phase (think ‘Nightfreak and the Sons of Becker’), The Coral shine and take a more serious tone with their fifth release. Infused with elements of Northern Soul and smooth, sunny 60’s melodies, “Roots” is quintessential Coral magic.  Tracks take a more “easy-listening” route, which might surprise fans looking for their kooky, youthful works of the past.  Graceful songs laced with strings contrast with trademark jam sessions, garnished with bittersweet lyrics.  “Rebecca You”, “Who’s Gonna Find Me, “She’s Got A Reason” and “Jacqueline” are the most outstanding tracks, marking a new direction through the transient time-travel world of The Coral.–Andrea D’Alessandro