Ladytron’s latest album “Paradises” reviewed by The Quietus
Ladytron, hailing from Liverpool, has returned with their eighth album, “Paradises,” creating a mesmerizing blend of ethereal voices and dreamy synth sounds. The music evokes a sense of otherworldly beauty, drawing listeners into a world where surrendering to the inevitable brings a strange sense of comfort, much like the eerie atmosphere in Anna Kavan’s novel, Ice.
The album, a product of vigorous writing and recording sessions in the studio, exudes a newfound burst of creativity from Ladytron. The band felt compelled to capture this energy and share it with their audience, resulting in a lengthy album reminiscent of the time when CDs often exceeded the hour-long mark. “Paradises” offers a rich, lush, and elegant sound, crafted with meticulous attention to detail and delivered through intricately layered synths and well-crafted beats. The record occasionally incorporates dissonant elements, effectively enhancing the melodies and adding depth to the music, reminiscent of Ulrich Schnauss’s early works.
The opening tracks of “Paradises” set the stage for an epic journey, starting with the purposeful “I Believe in You,” and continuing through tracks like the ethereal “In Blood” and the captivating “Kingdom Undersea.” Ladytron’s ability to craft songs that linger in the mind is evident in tracks like “I See Red,” which features a simple yet infectious melody akin to the style of Human League. Each song on the album presents a unique sonic landscape, blending dreamy synth textures with poignant lyrics that invite listeners into a world of introspection and contemplation.
As the album progresses, tracks like “The Secret Dreams of Thieves” and “Sing” showcase Ladytron’s knack for creating immersive musical experiences filled with enigmatic riddles and bittersweet emotions. The music exudes a sense of detachment, akin to a dreamlike state where reality and fantasy intertwine seamlessly. Despite the occasional sense of repetitiveness in some tracks, the overall experience of listening to “Paradises” is enchanting and immersive, drawing listeners into a world of sonic wonder.
In a time of chaos and uncertainty, albums like “Paradises” offer a respite from the harsh realities of the world. The ethereal beauty of Ladytron’s music serves as a soothing balm for the soul, allowing listeners to escape into a realm of blissful synth sounds and enchanting melodies. Ultimately, “Paradises” is a testament to Ladytron’s enduring creativity and ability to create music that transcends the boundaries of time and space, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in a world of sonic paradise.