Swim Deep - Mothers
8/10
It’s 2015; they’ve had few mop-chops, acquired a new band member and some 80s threads and it’s wonderfully apparent that Swim Deep have now blossomed into their own. One Great Song and I Could Change the World rather ironically stands out as the strongest song on this album; Austin Williams’ hazy vocals have evolved, adding a more confident clarity among new experimental and exciting synths.
However, the middle of the album made my heart reluctantly sink with disappointment; I remembered there’s a reason why music has moved on from the 80’s. But all hope was regained with Forever Spaceman. The percussion and synths create an otherworldly atmosphere whilst the multiple layers of tracks in Fueiho Boogie form a beautifully chaotic, eight minute masterpiece that makes my heart yearn to see it performed live. Although I need to give my ears a rest from erratic 80’s beats for a while, Mothers shines as one of the most exciting albums of the year so far. Gone are the romantic, hedonistic lyrics about the sun, and in are some fun, 80s-inspired synthy dance tunes. If you’re hoping for more of the ‘sun kissed noise’ that Swim Deep used to aim for, search elsewhere, but if you want an album of exciting progression then Mothers won’t disappoint.
8/10
