Gliss
We first got the taste for Gliss when they released their single ‘Beauty’ a month ago. Now after what seems like a lifetime, they are releasing their album ‘Devotion Implosion’.
Within the album’s nine remaining tracks, the first few have a rumble, a hazy mist that seems to engulf the majority to the songs. Because of this feature, it is very difficult to enjoy the music and vocals that are buried beneath. There are some points where the tracks seem almost psychedelically inclined. However, if you are able to get past this off-putting noise, and it is literally that, there are a few aspects that may impress you. There is an occasional underlying dance beat where you can actually make out the majority of melodies. ‘Sad Eyes’ could have been a wonderful song without the dreaded haziness as it has a poppy edge with the dance beat. Likewise, ‘The Patrol’ has some excellent guitar rhythms and drums that beat in unison proving how well connected they can be.
Unfortunately, when it comes to the vocals they are never able to fully express their passion, their musical magic or their talent for belting out a decent track; sometimes sounding as if they are floating on clouds while at other times not in sync with the music. However, it is usually the mere fact they are overpowered by the music and buried beneath the consistent muddle of static that suppresses them. There is some indication they trying to interlink with the songs and have some connection as on the ‘29 Acts of Love’, the voice sounds as if it is attempting to be seductive, however, once again, the song is overpowered.
The most endearing songs on the album would probably be ‘Lovers in the Bathroom’ where even though there is a consistent electronic noise in the background, the music is able to overcome this with strong melodies to become a slower, steadier and easier song to listen to. The second would be the concluding track, ‘Sister Sister’ which with a mix of keys/organ, distant guitars and vocals, the track is given an echo as if performing live.
‘Devotion Implosion’ is not the most appealing or engaging record that you may come across, but is worth an hour of your time to listen to.