8/10

Blurring the lines between swaggering musical ambition and passionate storytelling across a wave of releases in recent years, Gustaffson have now unveiled their long-awaited debut album 'Black & White Movie', a broad and emotive odyssey of richly woven narratives, evocative soundscapes, and poignant lyricism. Produced by Elbow’s Craig Potter and featuring collaborations with Emmy-winning composer Bear McCreary and the legendary Sir Ben Kingsley, the album cements the band’s place as a force of true cinematic ambition.

The album’s thirteen tracks serve as vignettes of ordinary lives illuminated by extraordinary moments, balancing melancholy and triumph in equal measure. From the soul-stirring intensity of ‘On Broadway’ to the haunting orchestration of ‘Flowers’, every song delivers a lush and immersive production that feels like stepping into a vintage film reel. With Craig Potter’s masterful production at the helm, their initial offering sees them break out of their formative guise to deliver a wondrous array of gems, all venturing into new and undiscovered territory for them.

Described by the band as “an original vintage record in a modern algorithmic world", 'Black & White Movie' is more of an artistic statement than any else. The collaboration with Sir Ben Kingsley further reinforces its theatrical themes, adding an unparalleled weight to its storytelling essence. All across 'Black & White Movie', Gustaffson look to direct emotions, compose experiences, and leave their audience spellbound in the flickering light of some beautifully refined anthems as often as possible.