8/10

While it is usually a very rare thing when a band becomes big through cult appeal rather than overbearing buzz, it is usually the most rewarding. For almost a decade now, Brighton-based outfit Porridge Radio struggled around the peripheries of the scene, before finally breaking through with their stunning 2020 sophomore LP 'Every Bad', a record that landed them their first Mercury Prize nomination. And since then, they have been on the tips of everyone's tongues as we all waited hesitantly for this, their third studio album 'Waterslide, Diving Board, Ladder To The Sky', a record that looks to cement their legacy until now.

While 'Waterslide, Diving Board, Ladder To The Sky' is without a doubt their most high-profile release to date, they have made great strides to make sure it still finds comfortably within their repertoire so far. Continuing to explore more of that raw and gloomy approach to indie-rock that they have always pursued, they create yet another beautifully constructed release. But although the general tone of this collection remains in the sunken bowels of their direction, there are still the odd moments of hope shining through, giving this new offering a more nuanced approach than many have given them credit for in the past.

It may have been conceived under a more intense atmosphere for the group, but the pressures of notoriety have barely scuppered their drive and compassion. 'Waterslide, Diving Board, Ladder To The Sky' stands equally tall as 'Every Bad', and will serve them extremely well into the future.