Release Date: Sep 27, 2024
Genre(s): Pop/Rock, Alternative/Indie Rock
Record label: Sub Pop
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Much like her 2022 debut Giant Palm, the album is rich in ingenious details and guided by her thoughtful, mournful singing. At the same time, this collection feels a little more spontaneous in parts, at times losing its incisive power but more often than not showing her gift for evolving compelling musical ideas across the span of a track. Having parted ways with Goat Girl after the release of their first album, Bock went on to immerse herself in softer styles of folk and alternative music, working on solo material and joining Broadside Hacks while also pursuing an archaeology degree and work as a gardener.
Naima Bock's striking 2022 debut 'Giant Palm' felt detached from the world around it - distinctive and original, quietly bold, the songwriting has a determined stream of individuality. Taking herself away to her grandmother's shed in South London, follow-up 'Below A Massive Dark Land' builds outwards in every direction - following her own instincts, it's a beautiful, challenging experience that underlines her potency. Seemingly reaching to the violin - an instrument she isn't technically proficient at - as a creative spur, the material here obeys its own set of internal rules.
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