Public Love
Self-Released, 2024
9/10
An Indianapolis outfit spearheaded by Lindsay Littrell and Garrett Langebartels, this debut brings a meshing of moody pop, alt rock and trip hop to an excellent debut.
“Meet Me In The Water” opens with strong attention to mood, where the hazy voice is met with a mesmerizing backdrop, and “Love Songs” follows with Littrell’s warm piano and pretty voice alongside the agile drumming.
Further along, “Forever” comes with ambience and intimacy via the dreamy climate, while “Hungry” is a rich and soulful album highlight that benefits much from Langebartels’ precise guitar and, of course, Littrell’s intriguing vocals.
Near to the end, the poetic and stirring “The Deep End” makes an impression in under 90 seconds thanks to the heartfelt singing and gentle instrumentation, and “Dirty” exits with a romantic spirit, where programming and synth meet at a place of mystery.
Often haunting and sad, there’s a sonically engaging appeal from beginning to end, where Littrell’s singing and contributions on drums from Steve Bradley and LaWoun Cusic might draw similarities to Kate Bush, Lana Del Ray, and Portishead, which I doubt anyone is going to have a problem with.
Travels well with: Herdd- Afterlife; The Sidneys- Sugar Kingdom