The Edge’s Top Albums of 2013: #6

London Grammar – If You Wait

Released 9^th September 2013, Metal & Dust Recordings

The electronic pop trio burst onto the scene in late 2012 with a handful of beautiful singles. Before the shortlist was announced, the band’s debut album, If You Wait, was the top bookies choice to win the Barclays Mercury Prize.

Statistics:

24% of contributors included If You Wait in their lists
Of those, 43% ranked the album within their top 3
One contributor ranked the record as #1

London Grammar have had a pretty sensational year, packed full of touring across America and the UK. Reid’s unique vocals are perfectly complimented by the atmospheric synths and beats provided by Dot Major. London Grammar are a demonstration of how three people can work together to make sensitive and intelligent music.
– Grace Pattle, Live Editor, ranked the album #3

If You Wait was my favourite album of 2013 by a long shot. Full of gorgeous soaring melodies, powerful vocals and beautiful production, this album is a triumph. I’m still shocked that it wasn’t nominated for the Mercury Prize, as it was a breath of fresh air to the popular music scene. Reid’s vocals command your attention, gliding over jittering synthesised sounds and strong, syncopated rhythms, If You Wait is the record you have to have listened to this year.
– Hannah Mylrea, News Editor, ranked the album #1

London Grammar have three lauded elements to their appeal: Hannah Reid’s out-of-this-world voice, Dan Rothman’s atmospheric dawdling strokes, and Dot Major’s command of percussion. For me, this record is as defining as the XX’s debut; filled with deeper meaning than overly perfected manufactured pop. Perhaps this means it lacks a direction and the choice of cover is unwise, but give If You Wait added context of confusion, restlessness, and hopelessness, then it becomes a masterpiece.
– Alex Rogers, Edge reader, ranked the album #2

Other Accolades: