With all these sonic elements in play, Flourish... assembles into a cohesive set of woozy dream pop, slightly removed from Native Speaker, but closely aligned to Braids’ artistic core.
Braids have summoned a record that’s capable of drowning you. It’s incredibly immersive, and at times it can be emotionally overwhelming.
Here, they’re trying to do more with less, and the electronics now rule where the reverb-laden guitar once seemed to have a pretty unremitting hold.
They may be painting from a darker palette, but Flourish // Perish is no less captivating or wondrous; it still burrows down into the soul.
Peaks and drops alike unveil a rich and full detail that becomes beautifully granular on subsequent listens without being obscure or academic.
Occasionally subtlety spills over into insipidness, but overall this is a masterclass in restrained beauty.
Pulling back might not sound like the most exciting creative choice, but Braids use economy even more captivatingly than abundance.
Like their closest comparison, their Canadian compatriot Grimes, Braids seem to have stepped up to another level with Flourish // Perish.
If we know anything about Braids by the conclusion of the song, and the album, it is to expect change and growth, not a settled-on sound. And, for better or worse, that is very human.
The spaciousness and clarity of Flourish does make it an easy record to return to; while challenging, it’s not a difficult listen.
The rhythms here are generally much more complex, both technically and texturally, forcing focus onto the minutia, practically demanding headphones over speakers.
This record feels like when you're experiencing a beautiful dream collapsing.
Fav Tracks - Fruend, December, Hossak, Together, Ebben,Amends, In Kind
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