Manchester formed indie pop group Pale Waves, formally known as Creek, released their long-awaited debut album “My Mind Makes Noise” (2018) this September, making them one of the “most promising new acts” in Britain. Consisting of lead singer/guitarist Heather Baron-Gracie, Ciara Doran (drummer), Hugo Silvani (guitar) and Charlie Wood (bass), the quartet made their first record deal in 2017 with Dirty Hit Records after 3 years as a group. Following the success of their debut single “There’s A Honey” and “All The Things I Never Said” EP, released earlier this February, the album sticks with the infamous upbeat, indie sound and unique vocal stylings of Baron-Gracie.
The opening track ‘Eighteen’ begins with an ascending, almost funky guitar riff that immediately draws in the ear followed by a thrill of electric guitar and drums. The catchy chorus quickly comes in leaving both a satisfactory and entertaining tune to the listener. Pale Waves certainly have the full hit and dance factor as seen throughout the album and particularly in tracks ‘Came in Close’ and ‘Loveless Girl’ (Tracks 4 and 5). The deeper, more emotional side of the album is seen and more apparent in tracks such as ‘When Did I Lose It All’ (Track 7) and ‘She’ (Track 8) in a slower, heart wrenching soft jam. The lyrics “the saddest thing of all is that I know/you’re truly under my skin and that won’t ever go” from track 7 portray the tempestuous and constant battles one might experience in love in which the album encapsulates.
One thing that Pale Waves does incredibly well with this album is creates a story, and makes each song their own that fluctuates throughout. Every track has its own uniqueness but doesn’t stray from sounding like it belongs elsewhere. As only a debut album, it’s no surprise this English four piece is already on to the road of success.
Recommended If You Like: The 1975, Cocteau Twins, Wolf Alice
Recommended Tracks: 1, 7, 11, 13
Do Not Play: When Did I Lose It All, She, Karl (I Wonder What It’s Like To Die)
Written by Alisa Agostinelli on 10/26/2018