Published by Mason Oldridge, 10 September 2024
London Grammar are back with a new batch of indie tracks on their fourth studio album.
The trio opens the record with lead single House, set to a drum and bass backing, followed by Fakest Bitch, an artistic, stripped-back piece with honest lyrics. Most recent single Into Gold acts as a ballad and is the standout track on the album. A slow burner, it gradually builds up towards a techno break with psychedelic influences. It also serves as a pleasant prelude to the title track, a Florence and the Machine-esque close to the record with gentle piano that gives way to heavier guitar, and higher vocals that create a more sinister atmosphere. Elsewhere, the rest of the songs in the middle of the tracklist are more typical indie music.
On the whole, we are met with matched expectations of the genre. Reid provides beautiful vocals which are paired with clean instrumentation. Easy listening, nothing groundbreaking but an iron-clad talent demonstrated nonetheless.
7/10