With an inescapably addictive sound, Pale Waves are leading the way for the best debut of 2018.
The name Pale Waves has been on the lips of alternative music fans in Manchester for years before their debut album ‘My Mind Makes Noises’. From their opening demo’s back in 2015 to massive UK tours in 2018, this album has been highly anticipated with the necessary level of hype surrounding it and it doesn’t disappoint. Lead singer Heather Baron-Gracie has previously described the album as “like reading my diary” and opening track ‘Eighteen’ is a fitting start which releases the album’s themes of romance, lust and hurt.
The album has found the perfect balance between huge pop bangers and personal gloomy moments which addresses key issues facing a number of people worldwide. ‘Noises’ discusses the negative inner thoughts that so many individuals have to deal with on a daily basis and the struggles surrounding mental health. The undeniable honesty in the lyrics such as “I feel like I’m slowly losing myself, I’m afraid that I need help” will hit home with a lot of fans and the tackling of intimate issues doesn’t stop there. Other tracks such as ‘Karl’, ‘She’ and ‘One More Time’ all delve deep into Baron-Gracie’s mind after she recalls feelings of rejection and bereavement in her own private life.
2017 singles ‘Television Romance’ and ‘There’s a Honey’ prove that Pale Waves have the potential for arena performances in the future, as well ‘Came in Close’ which is their most killer pop track to date, with groovy hooks and absorbing synths. This song in particular deals with insecurities of modern day relationships which effect so many young people on a daily basis. ‘Kiss’ maintains the dreamy melodies and infectious rhythms that the album masters perfectly, whilst ‘Red’ has a drivetime-pop element which deliberates whether she makes the right relationships choices.
Pale Waves have an 80’s inspired broad pop sound that has seen them become the most talked about new band in the UK. Drawing on a similar style to The Cure and New Order, their versatility is clearly evident throughout the 14 tracks on this phenomenal debut album. It’s difficult not to reminisce upon your own experiences of relationships as you listen to the passion and infatuation in Heather’s vocals.
This album will delight current fans as well as engaging thousands more. Believe the hype, Pale Waves have delivered.
Release Date: 14/09/2018
Record Label: Dirty Hit
Score: 5/5
