7/10

Ever since they first emerged with their breakthrough debut LP 'In The Cold Wind We Smile' in 2009, Scottish outfit The Xcerts have been riding the peripheries of the commercial scene. A cult identity that while receiving countless praise and acclaim over the years, especially on their 2018 record 'Hold On To Your Heart', hasn't quite broken through to the widespread appreciation they have always deserved. But after five years away from the scene, they are reaching higher heights once again on their fifth full-length 'Learning How To Live And Let Go', a release brimming with fresh and adventurous ideals.

While the trio have largely honed in on a more generic pop-rock endeavour in previous years, 'Learning How To Live And Let Go' feels like a far more innovative listen. Dabbling in a whole host of other aesthetics that occasionally borrow from emo, hardcore, electro-rock and so much more, this new outing is probably one of the more proficient uses of organised chaos we have heard in a while. Although delving into such a varied direction can sometimes feel messy and unhinged, The Xcerts find a comfortable middle ground in which to pursue, resulting in a safe yet still ambitious listen.

While it still maintains plenty of those original textures that first brought them to the fold, there is plenty of diverse and eclectic appeal running throughout this new album, showing there is still life left in them yet. Brimming with inventive pursuits and stellar songwriting from start to finish, 'Learning How To Live And Let Go' marks a vital turning point in their ascent to date.