Steeped in classic psychedelic guitar pop and the Paisley Underground scene, not to mention the broader sixties cultural aesthetic, The Crystal Teardrop release their latest album `Love You More`
The album opens with the dreamy lovelorn `Love You More` where there`s a reflection on a love lost but on the flip side there`s always hope of new openings. We have a sense of empowerment running through the rhythmic `Tomorrow Starts Today` which has some delightful jangly guitar chords and occasional Hammond organ.
`Times Are Gone` is another melodic contemplation on what`s important in a meaningful relationship. There`s an appeal for a restructuring of the narrator`s current relationship with `Outside Looking In` to prevent an inevitable separation.
`It’s Too Late` is fast paced rock out which was inspired by the bands tour supporting the Pandoras. The illusory `Circumstances` kind of awakes but retains that misty atmospheric ambience. We also enjoy some delightful Indian vibes on route.
`If I’m Right` is a plea to work things out and follow your instincts to get it together and takes inspiration from Rubber Soul and Revolver. A melodic number that does have a fairly retro vibe. The cadenced `Room Without A View` hints at a trip through the doors of perception and was written to showcase the band’s instrumental versatility.
`What It Adds Up To` has a beat that really draws you in and is another song about empowerment, about taking back control in a relationship. We enjoy a more inspiring folk-rock love tale with `The Thoughts You’re Thinking`.
‘The Eleventh Hour` has a sort garage rock texture with a political slant. The final cut `Touch The Sun` runs just over seven minutes in length and according to singer Alexandra Rose “questions the meaning of human existence”. It`s a delicious trippy psychedelic journey where the band really let loose.
There was much to enjoy with `Love You More` where Alexandra Rose (lead vocals and guitar), Leon Jones (guitar, electric sitar), Stuart Gray (keyboards, Mellotron), Ed Quigley (bass, vocals), and Huw Woodward (drums, percussion) shared further shades of psychedelic guitar pop and sixties vibes.
Their debut album`…Is Forming` really hit home with me as it was so fresh and different and while `Love You More` feels more mature, it`ll need a few plays to really permeate.
Rating 8/10
