Album Review
The Autumns' debut album, The Angel Pool, is an entrancing set of dream pop that draws heavily on the swelling feedback of My Bloody Valentine and the ethereal harmonies of Cocteau Twins. At times, the group's sound takes precedence over its songwriting, but it is hard not to be swept up in the cascading guitars. The album also recalls Adorable, with a touch of West Coast pop. It is dreamy and absorbing music, ideal for a quiet listen. Producer Andrew D. Prickett brings these sounds together beautifully. Listeners who enjoy the late-1980s and early-1990s British pop of The Stone Roses, James, and The Charlatans should find plenty to love here.
The Autumns' melancholy guitars carry several melodies and countermelodies at once. The words can be difficult to make out on a casual listen, but the vocals are beautiful and complement the music perfectly. Prickett, formerly of The Prayer Chain, produced the album, which may explain some of the similarities I hear between the two bands. The guitar tones in particular remind me of something he might play. The Angel Pool is a remarkable record, full of atmosphere and carefully shaped songs.
