Following in the vein of MBV and Slowdive, Ride returns with a new album after 20 some years. It’s hardly shoegaze but Ride were always closer to Britpop anyway. More synthy and electronic with lots of turns for the anthemic in a way that smacks of The Killers. Decent comeback record but doesn’t hold a candle to the new Slowdive (on a-file currently).

Related: Swervedriver, Jesus and Mary Chain, Blur, Curve
Favorites: 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9

1. (5:57) Lannoy Point—Propulsive, bass-driven, urgent. Soaring chiming guitars.
2. (4:12) ** Charm Assault—Catchy, roaring pop. Atmospheric bridge.
3. (3:57) ** All I Want—Weird syncopated voice and synth switch off with driving rock.
4. (3:19) ** Home is a Feeling—Dreamy shoegaze, a lot like Slowdive.
5. (6:59) ** Weather Diaries—Somber alternative rock sound. Chiming guitars. Epic noise build towards end.
6. (5:25) Rocket Silver Symphony—Long two-minute progressive synth intro. Then more rockish, explodes into a huge symphonic rock jam midway through.
7. (2:55) * Lateral Alice—Grinding, distortion-laden rock. Reminds me of The Black Angels.
8. (6:29) ** Cali—Driving, somewhat atmospheric rock.
9. (2:26) * Integration Tape—Airy, ambient noise. Soft voice strands.
10. (4:23) Impermanence—Grand, dramatic, closer to baroque pop.
11. (6:08) White Sands—Slow, drawn-out, orchestral.