7/10

Ever since she first landed on the scene with her stunning breakthrough debut album 'Long Way Home' in 2016, Låpsley has always been one to go against the grain of her contemporaries in the alt-pop arena. While her kin are always chasing the next big phase in popular trends, Låpsley remains true to the warm and organic aesthetic that has given her a fresh and distinctive texture in which to explore. And while her 2020 follow-up 'Through Water' struggled to make an impact on the commercial stage, she now returns with her third studio album 'Cautionary Tales Of Youth', a record that looks to rekindle those initial dynamic days.

From the very start, 'Cautionary Tales Of Youth' makes for a wonderfully deep and absorbing listen. Continuing her succinct flair for enigmatic production, perfectly levelled against her captivating voice, she aims to deliver a collection that builds upon her formative work and enter the next phase within her musical evolution. While much of the record doesn't do much to really pique your attention, it has this beautifully alluring direction that sees her offer up one heartfelt gem after another to dazzling and passionate effect.

With this being her first new release away from her original record label, it is clear that some of the shackles around Låpsley have begun to be stripped away. She seems more confident and enticing this time around, showing that she still has plenty of fresh and dynamic ideas waiting to be developed.