COMMON GROUND

Following a string of great albums in recent years, 2020 saw personnel changes paring the size of the band down from 8 to 4, but this sensational album, Common Ground, saw the new stripped-down band respond impressively, boldly moving forward, trying out some new styles and directions, while maintaining and building upon the core attributes that make this band great. I thoroughly love this album, from start to finish, every song a gem. It starts with a few songs that don't quite sound like BBT, as they expand their sound in some interesting directions and styles, and although at first a bit disconcerting, it all works wonderfully, providing some fresh style and perspective. Later in the album, the full glory of Big Big Train is fully realized, with the concluding series of 'Common Ground', 'Atlantic Cable', and 'Endnotes' providing perhaps their best song sequence ever, highlighting all the soaring emotions, beautiful melodies and grand themes present in their best work. Not as 'pastoral' as other recent albums, but this bolder vision for BBT combines all the best aspects of previous albums with some delightful new sounds and styles. This was undoubtedly my favorite album of 2021, it just keeps getting better with repeated listenings. For me, one of their all-time best (probably best since English Electric, and possibly best overall), showing more growth and diversity, and just wonderful music. Unfortunately, BBT also suffered a devastating loss late this year, when longtime frontman vocalist-songwriter David Longdon tragically died in a vehicle accident in November 2021 (R.I.P David). A huge loss for BBT, David's family, his fans, and the music world. But this great music will live on, and most likely BBT will also continue to move forward as well. 5 stars.