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Aug 16, 2018 Web Exclusive By Matt the Raven

Four years after their debut album Season Sun, Gulp have returned with another collection of eccentric and somewhat trippy pop compositions that have a decidedly art-rock aesthetic.

The offbeat synergy of melodic weirdness and unconventional dynamism on All Good Wishes is definitely an acquired taste, but one that is made more palatable by the hazy, singsong vocals of Lindsey Leven.

With a ‘60s grooviness and the smoky elegance of the vocals, Gulp’s sound lands somewhere between Stereolab and Super Furry Animals; which actually makes a lot of sense since Leven’s bandmate/husband Guto Pryce was a founding member of the latter.

Some patience and repeated plays may be needed to digest all of the peculiarities offered here as the few hooks are not readily apparent. But once assimilated, what is apparent is that Gulp not only experiment with tone and texture but also with melody as they tease out enough animated rock elements and shifting beats to keep your ears contented, but none that actually make a lasting impression.

Some exceptions are the exemplary and peppy opener “Search For Your Love,” the synth-infused “Morning Velvet Sky,” and the slower, more expansive “Beam.” These tracks glimmer with a timeless coolness and a dash of eccentricity that play out like a psychedelic trip down memory lane. If only the rest of the album would shine as bright.

But even with its few shortcomings, All Good Wishes is still worth a test drive. (www.gulpgulp.co.uk)

Author rating: 6.5/10