Belle & Sebastian Reflect on EP Trio ‘How to Solve Our Human Problems’

Jordan Bailey

Scottish folk outfit Belle and Sebastian have returned have with smorgasbord of new music. Three separate EP’s, to be exact, that hit digital shelves over the course of three months, with the first, “Part 1,” dropping Dec. 8, “Part 2” Jan. 19 and “Part 3” Feb. 16. Collectively known as “How to Solve Our Human Problems,” this trio of releases find the Stuart Murdoch-lead gang of folk musicians sticking with the sound they known best — a sound that’s certainly stood the test of time. The only thing that’s changed, it’s safe to say, is their distribution.

The title “How to Solve Our Human Problems” is no doubt audacious. And in fact, Murdoch says it’s kinda funny. “I mean really, how are you gonna solve our human problems,” he said in an interview with UPROXX, “It’s not gonna happen.” It’s clear that this wasn’t his or his bandmates intention, but he simply liked the title and ran with it. Murdoch has been studying Buddhism lately, and the title, along with some of the music itself, stems from his new obsession. Buddhism doesn’t mean you have to go it alone, though. “I’ll Be Your Pilot” embraces companionship. Lead by a Kenny G-style tenor sax, fans will find reassuring lines like “I won’t leave you to suffer” and “I will keep you safe.” It could be said that if there was a theme to this album, it’s the anti-divisionism message that we are all in this together.

Sonically speaking, these micro-records have plenty to observe. Kicking off “Part 1” is an elegant tune with the flair of nostalgic soft-rock — Belle & Sebastian’s bread and butter. “Sweet Dew Lee” releases endorphins of love through apologetic pleading, pushed along by sporadic sparkling synth loops. Much throughout the trio of EP’s is this mixture of soft electronics, moving lyrics and various acoustics. The single “We Were Beautiful” does this with aplomb. Over the top of a drum n’ bass back beat, Murdoch gingerly, and ambiguously, sings “We were beautiful before this went down.” He calls the chorus “vague,” and while on the surface it may be just that, but interpretations will flourish upon first listen. “Show Me the Sun” not only has a title reminiscent of the golden age of psychedelia, but sonically it harkens back to the 70’s with stunning harmonization and echoing vocal arrangements. Closing out the tune is an utterly fuzzed-out guitar solo which fades into the black. “Cornflakes” too uses a trippy, Beatles-esque motif of unusual chord changes and complex arrangements.

Murdoch has admitted he’s “very comfortable” with his fan base. Having started back in the mid-90’s, they certainly accrued a wealth of devotees. In fact, with these new releases they stand to gain a whole new generation of listeners. This comfortability speaks directly to their music. Murdoch and his bandmates sound as free as they’ve ever have. Sure, there’s some experimentation here and there, but mainly what “How to Solve Our Human Problems” is less of a pamphlet answering the query itself, but instead a showcase of their veteran-ship.

“How to Solve Our Human Problems, Pt. 1” is available Dec. 8, “Part 2” Jan. 19 and “Part 3” Feb. 16 on Apple Music