8/10

Throughout her tenure, singer and songwriter Natalie Mering aka Weyes Blood has always been one to explore the more tranquil and effervescent side to the alt-pop sound. While her previous endeavours certainly placed her as a fresh and warming artist on the rise, it was her last outing on 'Titanic Rising' in 2019 that saw her surge through the ranks to be named one of the best artists of that year. Now after a few years away to figure out her next move, she returns with her eagerly-awaited fifth studio album 'And in the Darkness, Hearts Aglow', a record that builds upon that progressive guise.

While she largely likes to venture down a baroque and chamber-pop-inspired direction from time to time, 'And in the Darkness, Hearts Aglow' feels like a far more distinctive piece of work when compared to what has come before. Rather than following a specific idea from start to finish, it feels far more passionate and open than what we are used to. Keeping the production and arrangement as stripped-back as possible, allowing her beautifully endearing voice to lead the way, her newest releases marks one of her most brilliant listens to date, brimming with warm and sensual textures.

There was never any doubt in the quality of 'And in the Darkness, Hearts Aglow', given the singles that had already been released from it, but hearing it altogether makes for wonderfully captivating listening. Bright and engaging at every turn, she has returned with one of the most accomplished records of her career.