Opening up ‘Altar’ is ‘Other Side’. Tinkling synths start us off before Julie Dawson’s breathy vocals come in, gently beckoning you into the album. It’s quite a melancholic track, but the song does begin to gain momentum as it progresses, with the slightly angry guitars sweeping us off our feet while Dawson’s vocals become surer of themselves. All in all, ‘Other Side’ is a stellar opening to the album and starts ‘Altar’ as it means to go on.
Next, we’re led into ‘Heavyweight’ and ‘Pretty’, both tracks heavier than ‘Other Side’ proven by the pounding guitar riffs and darker lyrics including “take it on the chin, repent your sins then scrub your skin” from ‘Heavyweight’ and the deep growl of the bass that introduces single ‘Pretty’. It’s a poetic ode to Galway where the band grew up and the homesickness that comes with moving away to the big city to pursue their passions but the sacrifices were certainly worth it for this masterpiece of an album.
All the songs on here are exceptional in what they do, each a piece of the puzzle that makes up the fantastic and thrilling jigsaw known as ‘Altar’. From the unadulterated anger of ‘Roobosh’ where the piercing chaos propels the LP forward to the slower sadness of catchy ‘Misery’ where, unlike what came before, the vocals almost get lost behind Sean O’Dowd’s soaring guitars.
‘Sinking Kind Of Feeling’ is a defining example of the shoegaze genre, from the waviness of the intro to the fuzziness of the guitars and low hum of the bass that are found throughout the song, it all makes for a delightful listen that compels you to hang around for more.
NewDad have succeeded with striking a delicate balancing act, the instruments give this track a warmth but the lyrics are colder and angrier. Shining stars include “I’ve been looking hard, but I can’t find God” / “feel like a fraud and a f*cking disgrace”.
The next three tracks are special in their own ways each with something to bring to the table. The jangliness of ‘Puzzle’ makes it a delight to listen to and the build up to the soaring guitar solo adds to the catharticness which has been demonstrated throughout ‘Altar’. Another personification of Galway except the love has soured, allowing for a more intriguing listen. Then, we dive into ‘Entertainer’ where NewDad’s unique use of the revving engine that kicks it off immediately piques your interest. Being one of the more angstier songs, it ensures that the album doesn’t become repetitive. Despite being more energetic than its predecessors, ‘Everything I wanted’ doesn’t feel out of place, instead it adds a much needed lightness to the whole experience. The drums are the highlight of the whole track, they’re subtle yet you know they’re there, adding an addictive quality to the song that leaves you coming back for more.
'Mr Cold Embrace’ lulls us with its tender, rhythmic strumming. ‘Vertigo’ on the other hand is much more dramatic and fun with its deliverance although both tracks have an almost dream-like quality to them, captivating you and ensuring that this’ll be an album that you’ll revisit time and time again. ‘Vertigo’ is a track dripping in guilt and regret “could you pluck out these thoughts, have them erased?”, providing an outlet for listeners who see themselves in the same way.
‘Something’s Broken’ wraps us up. The start is slow and slightly tense but as it progresses it turns into something lighter and hopeful ringing home the idea that we all need to hear sometimes, acceptance. Galway, life, everything else in between isn’t perfect but it doesn’t need to be making it the perfect song to finish everything off.
Beautiful and at times heartbreaking, ‘Altar’ is a superb second album from the Irish trio that’s bound to set an example for those who follow suit.
Madi Briggs
Image: Peter Eason Daniels
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