Velvet Grooves

They've been around for a few years - their existence first propelled by ATP 2005. They've had two EP's out entitled 'EP B/EP C', which was re-released on Warp due to critical acclaim. And now they're back with their first proper full length - 'Mirrored'.

What's fun about this album is how 'different' it is. We should probably call it 'math-rock' as it's more like fractured rock mixed with mangled electronics to doubly synthesised vocals. It's very different to a lot of stuff around, and at the same time - amazing. For anyone who's heard that single that came out (Atlas) - you'll find there's more on the album like that, only more varied (less poppy should I say). Atlas is probably the most commercial on the album - yet it'll probably only make it into the trendiest clubs around.

There're plenty of moments on this album which'll catch you out and you'll remember for quite some time. They shouldn't be addictive - but they are! And that's what's fantastic about all this - it's got hooks in the most unobvious ways! Electronic clusters which mangle with the guitars then sssssswwwooping along with a keyboard rush - this is just crazy! And if you're after vocals - you'll find it's more of a Cocteau Twins style effort (i.e. no vocals just random vocal noise).

This is their most ambitious to date - progressing excellently, pushing into a fuller sound yet still maintaining the reason why we loved them in the first place! So... big thanks to the record store for catching me with this! And a lovely lookin deluxe 12" it also is - big, gatefold, lush artwork, and with a poster!