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Following their critically acclaimed debut album ‘Lost In A Rush of Emptiness’, the band now unveils their latest body of work: ‘Close To The Flame’, due in July. This EP marks a significant step forward for the band, being their first self-produced project, a testament to their evolving artistic independence.
Title track ‘Close To The Flame’ immediately invites listeners into its world, a familiar yet fresh embrace that feels both intimate and grand. It perfectly encapsulates the EP’s core exploration: the messy reality of trying to hold onto love whilst dealing with self-doubt, regret and the fear of losing yourself in the process. Wanting to be everything to someone, but nothing at the same time. Wanting to be close to someone, “like a wave I’ll pull you in”, but at the same time wanting to be as far away from them as possible. Classic avoidant attachment style. We’ve all been there … right?
From its opening notes, the track establishes a delicate tension. It builds slowly, sort of like a reflection in water, blurry, soon becoming clear for a couple of seconds, before going blurry again. Shimmery guitars fill your ears every now and again, the self-production, which is clean and spacious, allows for each element its moment to shine, creating an atmosphere that feels simultaneously fragile and immense.
The lead vocals are, as ever, a central pillar, delivered with a whispered earnestness that conveys deep emotion without ever resorting to theatrics. Subtle vulnerability shows itself in every word, inviting a deeply personal connection, as if the singer is confiding a secret directly to the listener. The poignant line, “I keep hold of everything”, resonates deeply, speaking to the universal human tendency to cling to moments, memories, people and even pain.
‘Close To The Flame’ feels like a hushed confession, a quiet exploration of a relationship’s precarious balance – the warmth of closeness versus the danger of flying too close to the flame. It’s a testament to Bleach Lab’s songwriting, which showcases complex emotional territory that can be explored with grace and subtlety, but still leaves you quietly contemplating.
It leaves a lasting impression, a lingering warmth that is both deeply affecting and distinctly Bleach Lab, hinting at the profound depth awaiting listeners on their forthcoming EP.
