Purity Ring have been slyly making pop music trendy and alternative since their debut album Shrines in 2012, and have only refined this process with the release of their new album Another Eternity. There has already been so much hype around this record since its release at the start of the month (including being the feature album on Australian radio station Triple J), so we couldn’t pass up getting in on the action!
Megan James and Corin Roddick are the talented Canadian duo behind this synthesised project, with James responsible for vocals, and Roddick in charge of production and instrumentals. Although their previous album was recorded from separate locations, the pair decided for Another Eternity they would hole up together in their home town Edmonton, Alberta, a decision which allowed for more freedom and experimentation with their sound. James is quoted saying “I think it opened up a lot more, I wouldn’t go back to how we wrote Shrines again. It’s kind of oppressive.”
Reviewers have been comparing the overarching sound of the record to artists such as Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Ellie Goulding, and Miley Cyrus, which could have a lot to do with James’s innocent and pure vocals, combined with Roddick’s catchy and upbeat melodies. However, one thing that sets them apart from this world is their content and incredibly poetic lyrics. With mournful lines such as “I’ll whisk away your heartsigh, and bury it in mine” from ‘Heartsigh’ and “make your way in through my tears and i’ll relax, if you’re the truest one…” from ‘Repetition’ you know that the record is going to make your heart ache. The lyrics were actually realised on their website prior to the album, signifying that this part of their artistry is just as important as the music itself, and we definitely recommend you get lost in the imagery it evokes.
As for the music, the pair have expertly combined euphoric refolding melodies and staccato synth beats to create a future pop fairy-tale. Roddick articulates “I don’t have patience for long, wandering pieces, I need a focused song, usually with a vocal, and it has to be concise, and get from A to B quickly.” Which is exactly what the ten track, 35-minute album does so well. The verse-chorus structures are deliberate and succinct, allowing each song to stand strongly on their own, and making it difficult to pick a favourite!
We could describe each song in all it’s twinkling, electronic glory, but we would much rather you take a listen for yourself. You will be left replaying the tracks for days inside your head and perhaps finding yourself hitting that beckoning repeat button. We actually have yet to find something not to like about this release, from the beautiful, ethereal artwork; to the haunting simplicity of their video clips; to the floating melodies and illustrious production, Purity Ring truly are the whole package – pop and all.
Rating: ★★★★☆
Another Eternity is out now through iTunes.
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