8/10

Over these last few years, Somerset's China Bears have quickly established themselves as one of the more exciting names on the rise. Turning out a flurry of highly-regarded anthems has given them their own niche within the indie-rock arena, one that looks to add a more progressive element to the genre. And after a frenzy of much-loved outings these last few years, they are now ready to cement their enigmatic legacy to date as they deliver their eagerly-awaited debut album 'Participation Trophy', a record that looks to build upon those illustrious foundations they have created recently.

While normally ones to explore a more anthemic approach, the LP's opening number 'To Pull You Back' sees them venture towards a more heartfelt direction, something that they regularly come back to across 'Participation Trophy'. While it still manages to fill itself with plenty of euphoric and uplifting moments, China Bears seem keen to explore a more multifaceted aesthetic for their initial full-length. While tracks like 'Total Communication Breakdown' and 'Easy Kill' certainly add that distinctive flair they are known for, this new collection is a far more varied listening experience than we were expected, allowing them to fill it with plenty of surprising moments from start to finish.

The tenure of China Bears has certainly been a revered one, and 'Participation Trophy' simply adds that cherry on top of an outstanding run of form so far. Brimming with these raw and emotive textures that give rise to its faultless production throughout, they continue to establish themselves as one of the more innovative names doing the rounds right now.