7/10

Over these last few years, South West duo MothBreath has been cultivating a vibrant aesthetic to call their own. Taking influence from the likes of Cocteau Twins, Chvrches, Daughter, and London Grammar, their sound has broadened over the years, moving further away from their shoegaze-inspired roots in pursuit of something more riveting and atmospheric. And with the buzz surrounding them beginning to build once again, they return with their eagerly-awaited self-titled debut album, a record that builds upon those illustrious foundations throughout.

While the shoegaze and post-punk genres were certainly a big influence on their sound, this new collection feels far more ethereal in places, moving closer to a trip-hop-inspired direction as it plays. With some beautifully alluring vocals leading the charge over a dense and immersive production from start to finish, 'mothbreath' certainly looks to lure you closer with every chord. Developing this wondrous aura that ebbs and flows throughout, the pair have not only found a distinctive sound for themselves, but push it to its outer limits as often as possible.

While this new release has been many years in the making, MothBreath feel totally at ease within its songwriting and production. With nothing rushed or second-guessed throughout, this initial full-length cements them as one of the more passionate names on the rise right now.