ISLET

RELEASED BY THE MOVEMENT (Shape Records)

14/20

In the tradition of non-tradition, Welsh quartet Islet’s second album is a free and wild ride through their psychedelic minds. The album begins with the whimsical atmosphere of Triangulation Station, all spooky vocals and shuffling percussion. Carlos is the best track on the album, with choppy guitar work and a Foals-esque chorus proving truly euphoric. Interspersed throughout are short musical interludes which allow each track to break free of conventional structure and bathe in loving atmospherics. Tripping Through The Blue Room Part One is one such interlude, leading into …Part Two, where the melancholic guitar melody rubs up against a chorus of indistinguishable moans making for a luscious sonic landscape. Citrus Peel manages to be simultaneously off key and melodic, whilst album closer Rip Bark, with its crunchy beats, languid vocals and swaying melody, leaves the listener pining for more. There’s plenty to like about this sophomore album, though it’s not necessarily a step up from the band’s debut, rather a side step. Production is lo-fi, and the band’s evident musical aptitude can sometimes become indistinguishable. But nonetheless, Islet’s single-minded inventiveness continues to make this band an essential live act, where their passion and playfulness can really come to the fore.

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Words: Philip James Allen