This is the first album from Pure Bathing Culture, who have clearly been listening to the music of the Cocteau Twins, Saint Etienne and maybe even a bit of Best Coast. They are a duo from Portland, but their music travels easily, with the album opener ‘Pendulum’ a wonderful, head spinning mix of glittering textures and uplifting vocals. They operate at a slow tempo, in the best ‘shoegaze’ tradition, but songs like ‘Only Lonely Lovers’ show that they’re not averse to adding a touch of folk where appropriate. The lovely, warm hearted production is there for diving into, the whole mood one of blissful relaxation, but with substance to the songs this is music that will still make its understated mark, glistening in the half light. Highly recommended.
5 out of 5
Reviewed By Ben Hogwood
