Florence + the Machine Crank it Up With “High as Hope”

Florence and the Machine
High as Hope (Republic Records)

Chronicling subjects including her complicated connections to her London-based family, romantic relationships and even art itself, Florence Welch’s latest album finds the chanteuse sounding pure, raw and honest, simultaneously exploring love and loneliness. About the lead single “Hunger,” she explains: “This song is about the ways we look for love in things that are perhaps not love, and how attempts to feel less alone can sometimes isolate us more. I guess I made myself more vulnerable in this song to encourage connection, because perhaps a lot more of us feel this way than we are able to admit.” Another standout is “Big God,” a rousing, pop number co-written by Welch and fellow revered Brit, Jamie Smith of The xx. It’s also worth noting that she mixed the record in New York, where the view of the skyline – and its stark contrast to the chaos of the wider world – would ultimately give the album its title. Find Florence and the Machine on Facebook @florenceandthemachine.