“Lose Me Like The Ocean, Feel the motion…” Manchester’s Pale Waves have been slowly trickling out singles since signing to Dirty Hit about a year and a half ago, culminating in this anticipated debut album. It’s classic British indie pop in the tradition of The Sundays, New Order and The Cure, with singer / songwriter Heather Baron-Gracie‘s vocals beaming charismatically despite the sometimes sheepish subject matter (“I would give you my body, but I’m not sure that you want me”) over synthpop beats and jangly guitars. “Eighteen,” “There’s A Honey” and “One More Time” are already certified hits, but check out album cuts “Loveless Girl,” “Drive,” “She,” “Karl (I Wonder What It’s Like To Die)” and “Noises.” 14 tracks total pressed on 180g clear vinyl, includes download code.

• 180g heavyweight clear vinyl
• double vinyl pressing
• gatefold sleeve
• digital download included
• limited edition
• music label: Dirty Hit 2018

reviewed by satin struthers 10/2018