7/10

Since making a solid name for herself as a guest artist for the likes of SBTRKT in her early beginnings, singer and songwriter Denai Moore has always found an affinity with the more abstract side of the electronic music world. Her previous records have always seen her experiment with a wealth of bold and captivating ideas, but they always looked to focus more on the sonic direction rather than the emotion of the woman at the helm. Now ready to let her true emotions shine, she has returned with 'Modern Dread', her most personal and open release to date.

Seen as more of a journey of self-discovery than her last two full-lengths, her third effort is this wonderfully intricate collection of spellbinding works that see her juggle the raw and heartfelt tenderness at its centre, with a broad and sometimes haunting aesthetic that seems almost impossible to find a likeness to. Denai Moore has always been one to show an adventurous side within her music, but with 'Modern Dread' it feels like she has created a truly unique direction for herself to explore, which makes for a wildly exciting listen that looks to throw up more surprises than we initially thought.

It may not be her most succinct release to date, but 'Modern Dread' is a strong and focused LP that sees her take the next step in her musical evolution. She has always been one to take risks and try to manipulate her sound and style, but this feels like the start of something new for the artist that we can't wait to hear more of.