8/10

Since the release of their highly-applauded and appropriately named debut album 'Baby Teeth' in 2018, Toronto-based outfit Dizzy have found themselves the talk of the North American new music scene. Their initial release introduced us to their bright and sweeping indie-pop ways, but with that sudden surge of success came the inevitable pressure to go one step further on their follow-up in order to continue their positive momentum. So after a couple of years away from the studio, they now return with their sophomore outing 'The Sun And Her Scorch', a record that sees them mature far beyond their years.

From the start, it is clear that this is going to be a wildly different beast in terms of intent when compared to 'Baby Teeth'. With opener 'Worms' acting as the self-described theme of the new album, the track's smooth yet brooding intent pulls the listener into the damp underground to experience a feeling of isolation, claustrophobia, and suffocation; an initial jolt that sets the tone for this new collection. But while the band wish to create a more solemn release this time around, there are still plenty of moments that see them break away from their sonic path, with offerings such as 'The Magician' and closer 'Worms II' delivering a more euphoric punch.

It may have been built on a will to show the world what they are truly made of, but 'The Sun And Her Scorch' is a wonderfully dreamy masterpiece from a group we never had any doubt in. Diverse and complex throughout, there is a rarely a moment where this release falter and makes for a thoroughly enjoyable listen from start to finish.