5/10

When the Scottish duo first introduced themselves with their self-titled debut album back in 2014, Honeyblood were greeted as a fresh and original new endeavour, mixing conventional songwriting with a dark and menacing presence that lifted them up above the riff-raff of the time. This then became cemented with their sophomore full-length 'Babes Never Die' in 2016 as it seemed that the pair were beginning to hit their stride in what they could create. But between then and now, Honeyblood have become the solo project of frontwoman Stina Tweeddale with Cat Myers no longer involved in the pairing. And while Tweeddale has done her best to continue the legacy, it is clear that something seems lacking in the chemistry.

Rather than continue the group's strong and purposeful direction further, 'In Plain Sight' feels like a far more simple affair. Lacking in the mood-driven pretence of the previous two LPs, this new collection feels far more middle-of-the-road than many would have hoped for. While she has clearly looked to create a broader and more energetic release, it doesn't seem to be heading along the path that 'Babes Never Die' led us to expect, instead we are greeted with eleven tracks that all do their best to grab our attention but lack in the sheer gusto that their previous material should have suggested.

A so-so release for a frontwoman that seems uneasy in fronting a band alone. Those new to Honeyblood will probably find something to enjoy here, but for longtime fans of the group, this will feel like a strong step backwards. 'In Plain Sight' never feels like the same band that grabbed our attention four years ago, but may well become the sound of this newly arranged outfit.