Asobi Seksu - Fluorescence (first impressions)

The cover art for Asobi Seksu's 5th album, Fluorescence, is a dead-ringer for that of 4AD almuni, Cocteau Twins' Heaven or Las Vegas. Not surprisingly, the artist behind it is Vaughan Oliver, who designed that very artwork for the Twins. As you can imagine, the similarities between the two projects don't end there.



For this outing, Chikudate's vocals take greater precedence in the mix, unfortunately producing varying results. While she has nailed some of Elizbeth Fraser's vocalisations and inflections down to a t (as in the lovely single 'Trails'), the tonal quality itself sometimes leaves a bit to be desired (think the airy, vibrato devoid shrillness of Lush thrown into an exposing mix). The sweeping melodies tread a thin line between dreamy and sickly-sweet, but thankfully only ever cross over once or twice ('My Baby').

First-class drumming by recent band addition, Gorman, is reminiscent of Asobi Seksu's heavier early work and provides a welcome contrast to the delicate vocals and guitar-work. While the record works well as a whole, the tail-end really sees a lift in momentum. Hanna-sung single 'Counterglow' is a definite standout, along with the beautifully ethereal 'Ocean'.