8/10

Since the release of their breakthrough debut album 'This Is Our Vice' in 2016, three of the four members of Cub Sport have come out as gay. And although this has not done much to the sonic direction the band have taken since, frontman Tim Nelson's autobiographical nature towards his lyrics has pushed sexuality and diversity to the forefront of his mind as they look to become one of the more forward-thinking names in the scene right now. So with only an eighteen-month gap between their previous self-titled LP and now, Cub Sport return with 'LIKE NIRVANA', a record that looks to explore even more of their personal feelings and emotions.

Ever since they first took to the global arena, Cub Sport stood out so much with their effortless and vibrant alt-pop sound, and it feels that not much as changed since then. But while their earlier work usually went for louder and more provocative intentions, this new collection relies heavily on ballads and lovelorn aesthetics to draw you in. Filled with bright and atmospheric textures, layered amongst the free and ethereal vocals of Nelson, 'LIKE NIRVANA' feels like a bold and exciting leap forward for the group as they create one of their most consistent and succinct releases of their career so far.

Warm and inviting throughout, 'LIKE NIRVANA' is one of those rare records that hardly ever puts a foot wrong, allowing you to get right under its skin and let its light and buoyant flow wash right over you. This may be Cub Sport's fourth studio record in four years, but right now it feels as if that prolific energy is working just perfectly for them so far.