Crucial trailblazers and carriers of the shoegaze torch, Slowdive were one of the definitive bands of sonic adventurers to emerge out of the early ’90s cluster of noise in Britain. Making strides alongside other indispensable acts such as Ride and My Bloody Valentine, the group helped create and mould the sound of the short-lived yet vital genre.
Now back with their first album since 1995’s Pygmalion, Slowdive’s self-titled fourth record is a collection of eight suitably synth-drenched passages of noise and haze propelled by heavy effects and delicate vocals. The approach has certainly worked for them in the past and in many ways, it still does.
‘Star Roving’, ‘Everyone Knows’ and ‘No Longer Making Time’ compound elements of ambient and post-rock to create something quite beautiful, and in fact echo some of their best work. But the potential for a great album is lost within the insipidness of the remaining tracks.
This album is ultimately a disappointing return from a band we haven’t heard from in 22 years; musicians known for their powerful and inventive sound. The intention is there, but the delivery falls short of anything truly remarkable.
Slowdive is beautiful, but a little hollow, like a pleasant dream you awake from only to immediately forget.
Photo: Ingrid Pop
Slowdive is out Friday May 5 through Dead Oceans/Inertia.
