8/10

Throughout her tenure to date, Australian singer-songwriter Julia Jacklin has always looked to conjure a more emphatic and progressive approach to the folk-pop guise. While very much a storyteller at heart, her music has managed to see her branch away from the sweet and supple tones of her earlier days, leaning further into a more progressive outlook for herself. And with the international success of her 2019 sophomore LP 'Crushing', she has now looked to continue that vibrant ascent on her new studio album 'PRE PLEASURE', a record that builds upon her glittering direction so far.

Harnessing more of that warm and effervescent aesthetic she has built for herself, 'PRE PLEASURE' instantly establishes itself as a broad and inventive release. Keeping the focus of her songwriting firmly on her mesmerising vocals, each track aims to share a moment of power and raw emotion at some point, giving us a more yearning sensation as it plays. Throughout this new collection, we see Jacklin's persona sharing time with its bold and shimmering production that keeps the momentum forever moving forward and delivering a beautifully compelling full-length as a result.

There was never any doubt that 'PRE PLEASURE' would continue her soaring flair given the tracks that had been shared from it prior, but hearing it all in one place really draws you in. She has created a brilliantly memorable offering that hardly falters and always finds a way to leave you wanting more from start to finish.