it took me a year of listening to this album to truely understand it, it took time to understand the move from I forget where we were but after some time you realise the approach changed and its for the better, the defeat is outstanding work.

So glad I did not listen to any of the negative reviews. From the first listening I was drawn in, so atmospheric, superb musicianship and tunes that took hold of me instantly. If you don't get it, maybe you should stick with your pop!

A lot of negative comments always generate a tirade of kneejerk responses that aren’t really worth it. A review is about opinion so have them but those negative people need to move with the times a bit. Noonday Dream is diverse it challenges the listeners, ‘I Forget Where we were’ was a grower and that album hasn’t left my stereo for 4 years. Ben Howard’s music always leaves a smile on my face his depth and warmth of sound and beautifully crafted lyrics are unique. He is ever changing and good on him. Listen to the old stuff if that’s what you like but don’t damn a man/ a group that strive to create fresh music that combines genres and ultimately delivers in buckets. It’s a journey follow if you want or not, I know I will. 🤟

This album shows a new side to Ben and his music.Drifting away from his folk routes in Every Kingdom and the negativity and sorrow from I forget where we were.However this album is unique, as Ben and his band explore a different sound.

Loved the last album but not a single song on this I’d purchase. What was he thinking.

The A&R team at Island must have been on holiday when Ben Howard played this album to his record label.

I’M ONLY TOO HAPPY TO RE-REVIEW THIS UTTERLY BEAUTIFUL MELANCHOLIC ALBUM OF SOUNDSCAPES. THIS ALBUM REWARDS WITH EVERY SPIN.

I’ll admit, on first listen I wasn’t sure about this album. The more I listen the more I love it. The more I’m drawn in. It’s a thing of beauty! Seeing him perform it live at Hammersmith helped me to appreciate it even more. This is not background music-turn it on loud and tune out from real life! I’ve loved all of Ben’s music, and I’m glad I gave this a chance to grip me.

Used to love his music but this is dreary, slow, boring and never really gets going. A huge letdown!

No drugs, no violence, no dissing women. Just great lryics and deep music. Makes me reminisce about memoreis I don't even have.

I am really enjoying this album, both the feel and sound. To be honest there are plenty of other singer songwriters who have the same sound as the songs on EK. His sound now is certainly unique and that makes it far more interesting for me. If he doesn’t feel his old material then why should he continue to produce the same old music? Only for some cash, which I am sure isn’t his main driving force. Onwards Ben.

Can write some undoubtedly wonderful songs. I love miserable music me but this takes the biscuit, bordering on a joke. Took a shower after listening to clear the grunge. Of course sections of beautiful music but overall like so many artists after a while just trying to be too clever for their own satisfaction forgetting the fee paying public. Massive disappointment cheer up Ben you’re earning a fortune by whacking out tunes without having to train commute. Life’s ok I’d imagine. Just sing us a song next time.

This album breaks my heart and fixes it at the same time. I can feel so much emotion on this record. It gives me hope and shines a light when I listen. What an inspiring album. It’s been a while since I felt this strong connection to an album

Brilliant , really well done each track unique and wrote with fabulous talent .

Well done Mr Howard x

Sort of reminds me of a couple of Nick Drake songs. He's not so main stream, so maybe this will allienate some of Ben's fans. A couple of really good tunes to get lost in, not so sure of the rest.

Loved his earlier material but this is not enjoyable as a light listening. If you are a deep thinker and connoisseur of this style. Disappointed

The first track is worth the price of the album alone! Enjoy...long live the Ben

Ben seems to be following the path of one of his influences, John Martyn. I can handle that, they’re both legends that have evolved their sound into what they wanted. Gotta respect that, it’s not all about chart hits kids

Been a big fan of Bens since the start, 1st album is one of my all time faves, 2nd was ok, now this load of old twaddle.. Big disappointment. 👎🏻

......found a cure for my insomnia!

Stunning, beautiful, dreamy, incredible... all the good words you can think of.

This man is something else.

💖

This guy is a legend. His 2nd album didn’t have a great reception from fans immediately, but it grew and is a masterpiece. This is feel is the same, yes it’s a little different. But when have any of his releases been the same? Just because it’s different doesn’t mean it’s a 1* album, so it’s unfair to grade it that. Especially those grading it before it even came out. Give it a few listens and then grade it.

We are very lucky to have such an exciting and talented musician. Been lucky enough to see him perform many times and meet him. So I’m looking forward to getting to know this record and see what direction the live shows take.

Dull

Ben’s third album continues the dramatic turn from his fantastic second album but this time with added stillness. Ben Howard’s lyrical work and vocal nuances have always been his best feature, while this album may further divide his fanbase and cult following - most of which hate that this deviates from the acoustic alternative gentleness that spawned his debut, here he goes for the deep rich tones, slower verses and heavier lyrical work that is very reflective. It’s not an easy and passing listen; you must give this album the time and allow your ears to be arrested, caressed, and left with an indelible mark on your soul and mind. He dabbles and harks back to some of his earlier work with songs like ‘Someone In the Doorway’ and ‘There's Your Man' but it’s not enough for passing fans. His style has ultimately changed from catchy chords and riffs to something more deconstructive, nostalgic and clearly something he wants to explore further. This is a high-produced folk-esqe alternative driven album that cannot be overlooked. It may appear selfish, self-reflective and too self-interested but Ben is not one for ego, he wants to sing and express what he gone through the last few years.

Dreammmy

Learning not to expect, is the best way of not being dissapointed. Some people leaving reviews here want more of the same, like the first album. Seems like they can't move past that. Ben Howard is following his muse, letting it take him where it will. And that is joy enough for me. Good music grows on you, and Ben's music is a seed, planted and then nutured. As he blossoms into his own unique sound scapes, he leaves a trail of questions and answers. Ben is walking his own path, and and I for one is so thankfull for that. Thanks Ben, most excellent music !!

As ever Ben shines through the murk of life, and let’s you incapsulate the day dreams in your mind.

The more you listen the better it gets.

This Guy is such an **AWESOME** songwriter and as such each album he does changes and flows like a river to take you somewhere different. You don’t have to always go WOW!, tap your feet or particularly like the lyrics but you always have to admire the quality of the writing, sound and arrangements. Noonday paints a different picture than all of his other work and that’s what makes his music so great. If you expect everything to be like Every Kingdom than Ha!!! Tough you are just stupid why would he bore himself or everyone else with repeating everything. That’s all you here everywhere boring same old rubbish churned out by brainless pop idiots or computers with no heartbeats. This is actually what you call songwriter and music, Roll On Ben Howard

Ignore negative reviews if you love Ben Howard this is a bit of you.

There are few albums on my must buy list, but a new Ben Howard is on there in capitals. I had now notice that this was coming, but having sampled the first tracks, I know that Ben has developed and is going to take us somewhere different.

*****

My initial reveiw was for the three pre order tracks. Now I have the whole album, I think it is truly wonderful. I love and respect artist that follow their own paths and give us the music they truly wish to create. It may take me a few more days to fully appreciate, but my experience so far has been wonderful. I am looking forward to following Ben's music for many years to come.

I’ve been listening to Ben Howard since his first album and can’t believe the change in the style of his music. However, in spite of these changes, from more ‘pop-y’ melodies on Every Kingdom, to darker, more beautiful (in my opinion) lyrics and guitar patterns in both IFWWW and the Burgh Island E.P, this album has surprised me once again. To be honest, when I initially listened to ‘A boat from an island on a wall’ I was a bit disappointed because I couldn’t understand the meaning behind the lyrics, and I was also missing the signature Ben Howard guitar picking patterns that I was so used to from previous albums. Nevertheless, after listening to the whole album several times I have realised that ‘A Noonday Dream’ is one of a kind; all of the songs together, listening to both the lyrics and the instrumentation, are full of metaphors in which most avid music fans, once fully understood, would appreciate.

Brilliantly Cornwall, perfectly international.

Ben has surpassed himself. He’s been evolving from his stripped back roots, surprising us with each new release. This album is a pleasure to listen to. Soundscapes are created, his poetic lyrics tell mournful stories. This is beautiful and brilliant, his best yet.

Another beautiful album, the whole creation is a masterpiece from start to finish

Who even is this weirdo? Does not even sound like him!

Absolutely reeks of garlic Ben im struggling to give it a 1

It’s a shame this album is so aweful it’s like he is mumbling every song

Astonishing gent , performance on jools last sun .... wow just brilliant ✌️❤🇮🇪 best thoughts and huge thanks from Niall in Ireland ☘️ Mr Howard genius 🎶

Been a massive fan for many years, loved the change in direction on IFWWW and this sounds even darker and just different. Some of the songs I’ve had to listen to couple of times to understand, but none the less a fantastic album.

As always styles are going to change and I am so ready for this album to become the new soundtrack to my life.

Nica Libres At Dusk is my favourite so far.

Ben’s sound has progressed with every album - you really feel the growth of him as an artist with every ep, album, live performance. For me, he’s achieving things his contemporaries aren’t. I’m really loving the ever-morphing yet familiar melancholia and heart-twanging textures of this man’s sound. Keep ‘em coming Ben!

Incredible, deep and just down right beautiful music... can’t stop listening to these 3 tracks and can’t wait for the album! Please release more UK tour dates Ben would be amazing to see these tracks performed live!

Too much of a departure from what we love, not only that but it is just tuneless caterwauling. Seriously rethink this before you release it.

You can tell when an artist is trying to replicate a song, sound or style and for me, that is what turns me off most music. Yes, music has its functional uses, but for music to become art the artist must draw from the infinite well of inspiration that dwells within him and paint his soul. Ben does this astonishingly well, with utmost sincerity and bravery. I admire the man so much.

His last album has been practically on repeat for the past 5 years, at home and in my car, and I still feel like I'm uncovering layer upon layer, Ialways have his music in my head as I hum to myself at times throughout each day. The album has had such a place in my life that the prospect of begining a new one seems a little scary - not knowing what shade the backround of my life is going to be painted.

Upon hearing the first few tracks of Noonday Dream I feel a comforting reasurance that Ben is ok, that even through the toughest of heartbreaks, the darkest of times, we pull through. I am strck the the new ways he has found to utilise his voise, the way melodies blur from one to the next in a surreal, indeed 'dramlike' manner. I love the use of foley and live recorded ambience in music and I am very pleased to find more of that here. The third track was my favourite out of the first three, with its swelling intensity and brutish bold guitars, the vocals acting as a thread which ties the hole track together, pulling tighter as the track progresses.

Thank you Ben for this album, I am certain I will be listening to it for years to come.

Love the new song! Since the first time I heard it and haven’t stopped playing it since!! Gets even more amazing each time I hear it!! Can’t wait to hear the rest of the album!! 💙

I have read the negative reviews for this album and I reckon they are reviewing from a place of misunderstanding. It is clear Ben Howard makes music from his soul. This album is beautiful and moves you. This album does not fail in that aspect just like any other album he has made. I can see how some may find it challenging but in reality it is beautiful, heartfelt and real. Maybe the lack of overused, synthetic melodies with a four line repeated chorus we hear every day on the radio puts people off this art because it’s all about style over substance these days. I reckon it is because people are no longer used to individual expression. Thank you Ben for reminding us of what is important.

I love Ben I really do and I wanted this to be awesome, I guess it’s his difficult 3rd album. The 3 tracks available seem a little flat: I’ll still buy it and hope it grows on me because he’s one of the fave artists

Can't wait to hear what's new in ben Howard's world ,see you in st Austell

Everything Ben releases is freaking stunning!! Nica Libres just makes you wanna float away!!! Best songwriter ever take note Ed sheeran !!!!

Very different, but still love it

Duno why people are slating the album fella is a genius trying different styles of music on true fans will like the album it's good to finally hear new music from him

Has there ever been an artist who has alienated his audience so completely? I went to a Every KIngdom Gig, and wrote afterwards that it was the best concert I'd ever been to. I remember thinking how out of place Black Flies was on an otherwise perfect album. Sadly it was a sign of the music to come. I've been to two gigs since the EK tour and didn't enjoy the experience at all.

I stilll listen to EK (and the underrated EP B-tracks) all the time (skipping Black Flies). I've tried but I can't get into anything since (Rivers in your mouth and Time is dancing are both ok).

From the first two tracks, it's plain that this album is going to be more of the dark, tuneless dirge of Burgh Island and most of IFWWW.

It's true that no-one has to be commercial, and if Ben's ambition is to satisfy the "deeper" lovers of music, then it's his choice, but to me it's such a waste of his talent.

Here's hoping that one day he'll decide to make Every KIngdom part 2....

His music is becoming more vulnerable and honest, and the melodies are beautiful and reflect that! These new songs are amazing to me, towing the line is on repeat all the time!

I like it from what I have heard so far , I have liked all his albums so far and I don’t think this will disappoint, don’t be quick to judge

Pure genius, he made us wait and it’s been worth it.

No doubt this record splits the masses who loved the more mainstream ‘every kingdom’ but personally I can’t get enough and I’m buzzing to (hopefully) see it all performed live in June.

Love all your music. Looking forward to seeing you again!

It had taken me a long time to get into Ben Howard when he released his first album because of the high rate of singer/songwriters going around, however Ben is one of a kind. His second album was breathtaking, and if this song is anything to go by, this album will be a treat!

Ben is keeping true to himself and his love for music. After the success of Every Kingdom and screaming crowds, he expressed a desire to please the music fans, not the mainstream crowd. The Burgh Island EP and I Forget Where We Were moved into that direction, with a darker undertone and catchy riffs replaced by melancholic guitar solos. This first song of the new album sees Ben travelling further in that direction and it is great for those who appreciate the songwriter in him!

Great first track! Can’t wait to hear the rest of the album.

Those giving this 1 star are in my opinion, pseudo fans stuck in the days of Every Kingdom. Anyone following BH's music from pretty much anything after EK will know that this was always the direction he was heading in. Talk of alienating his core fan base?? Haha no mate, if anything the opposite is true. In his own words he's quite aware and accepting of losing a few along the way. And honestly, the live shows will be a lot better for it! Oh the ignorance smh....

This is far more musical than every kingdom ever could be. It may not be for everyone but it’s a beautiful piece of music.

He could have been just another poppy sensation - but he actively decided to create and express what is personal to him. His changes and more unique sounds should be celebrated and appreciated. He is most definitely still our boi.

Glad yer back... first song sounds a mix of burgh island ep and IFWWW

Still like the sound of the new song. Got it pre ordered and glad yer back man. Canny wait to see you live. get yer back side to Scotland

Mertin

Enough of people shaming Ben Howard for his music - surely he’s the one to decide what he should create? I love his deep and moody themed songs and his ghostly vocals make the whole track

Ben,

As always your music makes my day! Been listening for some years now and I can’t wait for this album! As the legends lives! Black Flies fits any mood! Angry, sad, happy, overwhelmed, triumphant! You name it! Glad to see you back!

Peace out!