Shifting moods and voices effortlessly, Harding is an often technically astonishing performer, and Party is a work of quiet power. An inviting, captivating darkness.
In a busy genre, Aldous Harding is a unique figure with a clear, singular musical vision and identity. Dark, unpredictable and compelling, ‘Party’ is an album that demands attention and any time given over to it is well invested.
The different voices and inversions mean that, even though she operates within the broad confines of gothic folk, she has an air of unpredictability. This suggests that the listener is party to a talent at the very start of her creative life.
For the most part ... this is a party for one, best enjoyed curled up with few distractions in the twilight hours. Sit, contemplate, and be absorbed into Aldous Harding’s spellbinding realm.
It’s an album that creates a very particular headspace of desire, paranoia and possibility.
On Party her songs are minimalistic, but they carry an emotional weight to which no one is able to stay indifferent.
Running to nine songs, the album features no missteps ... There is something both abstract and individual and yet universal about the way that Harding writes and presents her trials and triumphs of the heart.
Party takes a few listens to truly unravel, and you'll find yourself discovering new quirks from Harding each time.
Harding’s command of her craft is evident and worth witnessing on Party—and worth keeping an eye on in the future.
Party finds the sweet spot between raw and refined, and in doing so, feels very real.
#1 | / | NZ Herald |
#1 | / | Rough Trade |
#4 | / | Gorilla vs. Bear |
#10 | / | MOJO |
#10 | / | NPR Music |
#12 | / | Loud and Quiet |
#16 | / | BrooklynVegan |
#16 | / | Double J |
#18 | / | The Skinny |
#21 | / | Les Inrocks |