8/10
After releasing their debut album 'Silence Yourself' back in 2013, Savages quickly became one of the hottest new names in British music. Their dark yet energetic presence gave them a sound like no-one else at the time and handed them huge hopes for the years ahead. And after a productive couple of years, here we are again with album number two. While this record doesn't have that same raw power as the first, it certainly shows a positive progression in their sound.
Unlike 'Silence Yourself', 'Adore Life' seems to show Savages in a more vulnerable light. Rather than the anarchic soundscapes of distortion and energy, this new record seems to show a band that has become more direct in what it has to say and makes for a far easier listen. And while they still like to give off the odd burst of emotion from time to time, it is always wrapped up in a pretence of direction and intent, making it less chaotic and more of a cohesive release.
They may have lost the shock value of their debut release but that is no bad thing when looking to create an eye-catching follow up. It seems this time they are looking to make a longer lasting impact and have managed to write an album with a more long-standing feel, which works well from start to finish.