Minimalist noir-pop maestros Love Inks are back with
their third album which shows the Austin TX trio returning to the
stark, stripped back sound fans fell in love with in their debut, only this time a more sleek, precise vibe is present.
Where E.S.P. was an intensely lo-fi enterprise (recorded using an analogue 8-track), Exi
sounds crisp and clean, with all components rich, close-mic’d and
perfect. The removal of their previous DIY aesthetic has lead to a more
mature, sophisticated sound. Yes, previous influences of The XX are evident, but flashes of Roxy Music and lord of avant-garde rock, Brian Eno are
distinct. The evocative and beguiling vocals from lead songstress
Sherry Le Blanc draw the ear with their wistfulness and ever so slight
punch. The musical components work around Blanc’s notes as well as the
melody and lyrical narrative. Guitars take a back seat to
present pleasant licks, steady riffs and evocative flourishes, but
simple synths and samples also have their part to play. The most
significant of the instruments is the classic 808-style drum machine
which proliferates throughout every track.
There is a warmth present throughout this album with its major keys
and soft mellow timbres. The Texan’s sophomore record is chill out music
to its core, perfect for whenever, wherever. The silences and
instrumental sparseness leads to just a subtle hint of tension, making
this an interesting noir-pop album filled with elusiveness and
subtleties.
See this at TGA here: http://www.thegirlsare.com/2014/09/26/review-love-inks-4/
