7/10

When Love Inks released their third studio album back in 2011, many comparisons were made with the likes of other downbeat artists such as The XX. And while that may be apt in places, the overall vibe of Love Inks is far more eclectic and uplifting than they may first appear. So with their fourth full-length 'Exi' due to drop, what kind of atmospheric sound can we expect from it?

For the most part, 'Exi' is a solid release of minimal electronics and sultry vocals that give the record this intriguing yet modest excitement. It is the Mona Lisa of albums, whereby as most will just hear a collection of despondent tracks, others will see that slight smirk that let's you know that these songs are far more uplifting than they first appear. The tracks each sit steadily between the elating and the depressing, to give this very unusual sound a little more to pay attention to and hold your attention from start to finish.

In all, this is the perfect record for those who think that Lana Del Rey is a little bit too mainstream or self-deprecating. It has this mystical appeal that, while is hard to place, is completely captivating and gives the record a feeling of wholeness and fulfilment.