The control and variety they display throughout Long Distance Song Effects shows that Goldheart Assembly have come into their own here.
Long Distance Song Effects is pretty much what you’d expect if you were one of the few who heard Goldheart Assembly’s debut album, without some of the instant hit that record delivered, but with plenty of depth to be found once you’ve peered beneath the skin.
The record’s sequencing feels like it’s been pored over, the ebbing and flowing stage-managed carefully to maximise each song’s impact. The abrasive moments provide necessary contrast to the softer ones, while codas act as clever little segues between the most jolting mood shifts.
There’s a depth and variety the Mumfords can only dream of, yet ‘Long Distance…’ will be lucky to tickle the Top 100.
To some Goldheart Assembly will stand as a fine example of musical romance, but others might not enjoy the beta endearment that washes over the record, and find it dry, maybe even a little dull.
#53 | / | Rough Trade |