It’s Here. Are you ready?

9/1/2023

It’s Here. Are you ready?

“Everything Is Alive” by SLOWDIVE

The wait is over. A mere pittance of 6 years on from a previous 22 years of silence, the 5th LP from shoegaze legends SLOWDIVE has landed.

Remember, this is a band with legendary status in my universe. Here is a link to an article I scribed for the amazing website somethingyousaid.com operated by group member Bobby Townsend after I managed to get to the first SLOWDIVE gig on reformation in 2014-

Slowdive Rising – A Sparkling Return

The limited edition vinyl should be arriving by post from the UK any day. Can’t wait for that thought for today’s post for a band that means this much to me. It dropped on Spotify at midnight. One spin before sleep. and I am just finishing listen 3 as I prepare this post.

“Everything Is Alive” is just 8 songs clocking in at 41 minutes. My initial reaction is one of both elation and frustration. Each track is excellent. Lead single ‘kisses’ [Ed. Note- ‘kisses’ was SONG 535 on June 20] still resonates brilliantly a perfect pop kiss.

The frustration for me, albeit slight, is that the overall tone of the record is quieter than I hoped. As well the songs are shorter and often just fade out, rather than ramp up for a longer finish. I was hoping for some 7-8 minute gems that would take me to another planet. Not so here.

To my ears, this is an LP that will grow in stature over time. Hearing the songs live will also enhance my appreciation. (7/10 on my initial 3 listens.)

Anyway, lead track ‘Shanty’ is where we start.

Almost ominous sounding at the beginning, it reminded me of ‘Lannoy Point’ by RIDE, the song breaks out into a gorgeous melody with muted vocals that would make ELIZABETH FRASER of COCTEAU TWINS proud. Here it is. Savour and enjoy as I am.