8/10

Over these last few years, Dutch outfit Personal Trainer have established themselves as one of the more immersive names on the indie-rock scene. Swapping big and anthemic riffs for a more sombre approach to their sound, the band's 2022 debut LP 'Big Love Blanket' cemented them as true innovators on the rise as they looked to broaden the dynamic appeal of their aesthetic. And after another heady mix of singles over the last few months, they are back once again with their eagerly-awaited sophomore album 'Still Willing', a record that continues that sprawling texture they have been developing.

With an even more enigmatic direction than before, 'Still Willing' sees the band reflect the bigger and more lively crowds they have encountered in recent years. Creating this bolder and more progressive approach to their style has allowed them to venture down these incredibly distinctive avenues, reemerging with some of their most interesting material to date. Still very much in the same vein they have always followed, their newest collection finds them in a brilliantly explorative guise as they push experimentation and innovation further to the forefront throughout.

While many heralded the pursuits of 'Big Love Blanket' upon its release, 'Still Willing' sees them take that adventurous spirit to a whole new level. Personal Trainer have returned with a brilliantly inventive release here, one that really stands out amongst their peers as well.