My Version:
Standard edition black vinyl
If you want the dulcet sounds of Portishead, Lives Outgrown is not going to give you that (you could still get that – technically they have never actually broken up). What it will give you is Beth Gibbons delving deep into her own psyche and producing a truly beautiful album that seems to be equal parts glorious instrumental arrangements and harrowing vocals. Does that sound pretentious? I feel like it does. But seriously folks – it’s Beth Gibbons. It’s beautiful.
But again, if you’re looking for something that sounds like Portishead, Lives Outgrown is not going to give you that. There’s none of the sort of jazzy, eclectic trip-hop influence. This one is borderline orchestral, and occasionally a bit folky. But name one person with a more perfect voice than Gibbons. I’ll wait.
My favorite songs on Lives Outgrown are all of them. No lie. This album is so good. You can check it out here.
Enjoy it while you can – Beth doesn’t exactly put out music on a regular basis with or without Portishead. And you seriously aren’t going to find a better singer or live performer. She’s a master.
