7/10

When they originally emerged with their breakthrough self-titled debut EP back in 2018, Canadian duo Made-Up established themselves as one of the more innovative names arriving on the scene. Taking cues from a more haunted indie-rock aesthetic and combining it with atmospheric electronics throughout, the band's immediate acclaim was extremely well-noted at the time. And after a number of years away to figure out their next move, they are now back once again with their eagerly-awaited debut album 'World Making', a record that looks to continue that broad and effervescent endeavour.

Despite its seventeen track runtime, many of the offerings on 'World Making' clock in at under two minutes long, making for this wildly unpredictable direction that is more about cementing an aura and texture than anything else. Continuing that same adventurous appeal they first broke through with, their latest collection finds them in this wonderfully inventive spirit as they sharply veer towards whichever style suits better in that moment. Whether it is creating these beautifully mystifying soundscapes or injecting a calming instrumental interlude, Made-Up keep the momentum moving throughout this LP, making for an incredibly enjoyable listen throughout.

It may have taken more than five years to come together, but 'World Making' has clearly been a labour of love for the pair. Adopting plenty of warm and tender emotions as it plays, Made-Up return to the fold with a brilliantly expansive offering here.

Made-Up's debut album 'World Making' will be available to stream on the 7th February 2025.