In the heavily populated genre of dream-pop, Maryland duo Beach House have led the way for close to a decade. From the outset, rather than attempting anything radically new, their fifth album is an unabashed effort to solidify their status as genre leaders.
Consequently, there’s a certain air of familiarity. Depression Cherry is not merely an exercise in repetition: there’s a shoegaze element to be found on tracks like ‘Sparks’ and ‘Beyond Love’. But for the most part the emphasis is on the beautifully melancholic, ethereal sound the pair have made their own. ‘PPP’ is as finely crafted a tune as they’ve ever produced, while ‘Space Song’ brings a bass guitar into proceedings, fleshing out the sound to make it feel more immersive.
There isn’t a single note that seems out of place; with nothing to break the mood, the nine tracks float along with a celestial calm. If you’re looking for radio hits or standout hooks, prepare to be disappointed. If you’re looking for an impressive and seductive record, then prepare to be very pleased indeed.