Bloom is the long-awaited fourth album by Baltimore-based duo, Beach House. It has been more than two years since the band released their last album Teen Dream and, needless to say, it doesn’t disappoint.
Willowy vocalist Victoria Legrand’s angelic and raspy harmonisation is alluring and soothing. Backed by guitarist Alex Scally, Bloom is full of delicate drum beats, dreamy keyboards and hypnotic guitar melodies, which in its entirety feels uncomplicated. This album demands nothing and requires no explanation. From beginning to end, Bloom is simply stunning. Individually, each song is beautiful. When listened to in full, it delivers so much more, and I feel honoured to be in its distinguished presence.
There is no categorising this album: it is what it is, effortless and refreshing. Bloom is a psychedelic wave of bliss, and it should not be paralleled or labelled. The emotive transportation that occurs when hearing this album for the first time cannot be contained nor dictated by any formal genre. Bloom is an eclectic mix of soft, heart-wrenching melody, inspiring day-dreaming around everything the band’s title illustrates.
The album’s first track and first single Myth will blow you into an instant poetic dreamscape, cast far from reality to a romantic wonderland of musical perfection. Everything from then on is magical, and I find myself spellbound by the masterpiece that is Bloom.
The 10-track album is so exquisitely arranged that anything more may spoil its beauty. Each song flows delightfully into and out of each other, and I am longing for more, yet content with the experience I have already encountered. The last song on the album Irene gives listeners a six-and-a-half minute finale of pure tranquility, and the hidden track brings Bloom to an unforgettable climax.
Bloom is inspiring, and what it delivers is stunning, musical genius.
Release date for Bloom is May 11, 2012.
