7/10

Ever since they first emerged with their breakthrough debut LP 'Native Speaker' back in 2011, Canadian outfit Braids have always been ones to walk a lesser explored path. Largely keeping their sound to a progressive electro-pop direction since their inception, the band's general tone has always been to develop and pursue more experimental ideas that give them that distinctive feel we have always admired them for. And after the pandemic put a dent in the reception for their 2020 release 'Shadow Offering', they are looking to get back to their inventive ways on their fifth full-length 'Euphoric Recall', a record that sprawls far further than usual.

While their last album was produced by Death Cab For Cutie's Chris Walla, giving the release a more driven and indie-inspired guise, 'Euphoric Recall' sees the trio self-produce for the first time, making for a far more intimate and adventurous listen. Opening up with the eight-minute introduction 'Supernova', it is clear right from the very start that 'Euphoric Recall' branches into more unknown territory like never before. Blending atmospheric intentions with a more uplifting nature at its core allows Braids to cultivate some wonderfully warming entries here, and deliver one of their more captivating collections in the process.

While it may not have the same instant impact as some of their more renowned works, 'Euphoric Recall' still makes for an incredibly dense and immersive experience. With its airy and strings-based aesthetic making up the bulk of this new offering, they are returning confident and more assured than ever in their sound, creating some beautifully vivid textures throughout.