"Gaze" is the ninth and final studio album by the British pop band The Beautiful South, released in 2003. The band, known for their fusion of jazzy indie pop and politically conscious lyrics, crafted this album as a continuation of their broad-ranging musical style.
The album features 12 tracks, including the notable singles "Just a Few Things That I Ain't" and "Livin' Thing". It marked a period of change for the band, with long-time vocalist Jacqui Abbott being replaced by new member Alison Wheeler. Wheeler's addition lent a refreshing element to the album's sound, and she shared vocal duties with established band member Paul Heaton.
As with previous albums, "Gaze" showcases The Beautiful South's knack for blending cynical and satirical lyrics with catchy melodies. Thematically, the album touches on contemporary social issues, personal introspections, and critiques of modern life - all wrapped in the band's signature musical fluidity. It further solidified The Beautiful South's reputation for tackling challenging themes with a tuneful, accessible sound.
Despite hosting a mixed bag of reviews, "Gaze" remains an essential part of The Beautiful South's discography. It serves as a testament to their musical journey and represents the end of an era just before the band announced their split in 2007.
