7/10

Since first introducing the world to their sound with their breakthrough debut album 'Hills End' in 2016, Australian outfit DMA's have been firmly connected to the Britpop sound with their distinct and nostalgic swagger. Throughout their tenure so far, fans of the mid-90s guitar sound have been keen to spot the dozens of influences mixed up in the trio's aesthetic, giving them a familiar yet distinct direction. But as they return with their third full-length 'The Glow', it is clear that the band are thinking of branching out a little more and leaving much of their original style behind them.

While there are still plenty of nods to Britpop on this new collection, 'The Glow' sees them spread their creative wings and embark on a more diverse and adventurous texture throughout. The record's opener 'Never Before' could have been ripped straight out of The Charlatans' songbook, but the follow-up title-track has a far more modern pop edge to it, giving this release an instantly eclectic intention. From there, the Sydney-based unit spend the majority of the album trying to find a sound that suits their formative direction, yet still see them try something new and interesting, a gamble that pays off much of the time.

It may not be their most cohesive or consistent full-length to date, but 'The Glow' still manages to pack plenty of bold and refreshing moments into it. The retro intentions of the group may be starting to wear out on here, but it feels like they have plenty of new and fascinating ideas waiting to be explored as well.