Soft Tissue
Lucky Dog/City Slang, 2024
9/10
The veteran English alt-rock outfit Tindersticks return with a 14th studio album, where their much recognized diversity is still present and guided by frontman Stuart Staples and his baritone pipes.
The mature and rich “New World” starts the listen with soulful bass lines and expressive singing that is met with horns, and “Don’t Walk, Run” follows with skilled drumming that suits the stylish baroque-pop nods of the calm climate.
Moving into the middle, “Falling, The Light” comes with a unique dreaminess that’s poetic and absorbing, while “The Secret Of Breathing” is minimal and melodic, where melancholic gestures unfold with a rare beauty.
“Turned My Back” and “Soon To Be April” exit the listen. The former is beat driven, as powerful backing vocals complement the mood, and the latter finishes with pretty guitar and soothing singing that tugs on the heartstrings.
A band that have never fit any easy category, since 1992 Tindersticks have consistently released original music that redefines rock, and here it comes with chamber, soul and jazz influences that are introspective, stylish and captivating.
Travels well with: Calexico- Algiers; Giant Giant Sand- Tucson