Vinyls of the Moment

Walt Disco - The Warping Back with a bang with their highly anticipated 2nd album which is an eclectic mix of tracks, including the latest single “Come Undone”, the deeply poignant “Jocelyn,” the nostalgic comeback single “Pearl” and my personal favourite the cynical disco banger “You Make Me Feel So Dumb.” This album is a vibrant masterpiece that hits all the right notes, elevating their signature cinematic glam. The lyrical depth of the album dives into personal struggles and emotions, reflecting on themes of envy, fear, joy, and hope with unapologetic honesty. Walt Disco fearlessly explores issues of gender dysphoria and envy, weaving them into a tapestry of raw emotions and self-discovery.

The band enlisted classically trained orchestral musicians to add a symphonic touch to their sound, the result? Horns, woodwind, and swelling string sections elevate the Walt Disco experience to a whole new level of organic brilliance, boasting analogue-heavy instrumentation that gives the album a warm, retro vibe. The entire album is lyrically artistic and vocally theatrical, reminiscent of musical storytelling greats such as Bowie, Kate Busy and Bjork who take you on a musical journey of their telling. They absolutely rocked the Queertopia stage at Mighty Hoopla and I predict they will rock at least one Glasto stage at some point in their bright-looking career.

KAWALA - Better with You

This debut album is a colorful tapestry of indie-pop and folk that resonates with themes of love, heartbreak and euphoria with the enchanting vocals of Jim Higson and Daniel McCarthy, whose voices weave a spellbinding narrative throughout the album.

Having had the privilege of both interviewing and watching KAWALA perform live, (and even snagging a signed vinyl copy), I can attest to the electrifying energy these lads bring to the stage. “Better With You” invites listeners on a journey through the ups and downs of love, from heartbreak to euphoria, all set to a backdrop of catchy melodies and infectious beats. The album’s 10 tracks, including standout tunes like “Jesse C’mon” and “Ticket To Ride,” showcase the band’s knack for crafting indie-pop gems that are impossible to resist.

Songs like “Searching” and “Good Like This” highlight KAWALA’s unique sound, where emotional depth meets lively instrumentation to create a truly engaging listening experience. Instead of following a predictable pop formula, the band infuses each track with their blend of indie, pop, and folk elements with a distinct energy, keeping the mood alive and spirited from start to finish. The album is a testament to KAWALA’s talent for crafting acoustic gold, with a mix of catchy beats, heartfelt storytelling, and genuine emotion.