7/10

Earlier this year, Bear's Den followed up their highly-praised 2022 studio album 'Blue Hours' with the wondrous EP 'First Loves', a collection that saw them pursue a more heartfelt direction to their spirited folk-pop aesthetic to date. And with that release proving a huge stepping stone within their musical evolution of late, the pair have now returned to share another EP in the form of 'White Magnolias', a collection that explores a more contemplative approach to romance.

Essentially, if 'First Loves' was the giddy and hopeful side to love and relationships, 'White Magnolias' looks to see it through more weathered and experienced eyes. Still very much clinging to the youthful ideals of kinship, but with a more cynical and defensive edge. While very much continuing the tender textures its predecessor sought, this new outing feels far more measured in its euphoric appeal, largely adopting a more pensive atmosphere that keeps the tone of the EP succinct and cohesive throughout.

Still very much in keeping with the traditional Bear's Den sound, 'White Magnolias' is a vibrant snapshot into the pair's current state of mind. Making these newer releases more personal and relatable has given them a more impactful style throughout, harking in a new and more intimate era in their glittering career to date.