8/10

Brighton-based quartet Winter Gardens are back with their explosive new EP ‘Uncomfortable/Unlovable’, a seven-song collection of high-octane, multi-layer pieces that succeeds from its energy, shimmering synth leads and haunting vocal melodies from Ananda Howard and Jasmine Ardleys.

Intimate and cryptic lyrics are strewn throughout the album, complementing its buzzing and exciting instrumentation. The band's signature sound, an expertly crafted layering of synths, piano and electronica create a rich soundscape, anchored by punching live drums. The surreal harmonies by Howard and Ardleys  take listeners through a dark, dynamic voyage into a truly unique sonic environment, drawing comparisons to the Cocteau Twins, Slowdive and unleashed elements of art-rock akin to Radiohead. 

While previous singles ‘Search Party’, ‘U/U’, ‘Things Fall Apart’, and ‘Anthropocene’ were ample indicators of the forthcoming album, it’s only evident with the full EP just how well the musical motifs and influences blend on this new project. Pair that with production help from Luke Marsden and Andy Miles at Star Delta, and ‘Uncomfortable/Unlovable’ is undoubtedly a strong EP release from the Brighton quartet, setting the stage for a strong year.