7/10

Since their infancy, White Lies have always been one to hone in on a strong and driven aesthetic. Their broad and vivid influences from the post-punk era, rebuilt and redesigned for a modern ear, have proven a winning formula for them throughout their tenure as they regularly find themselves as one of the more interesting names working today. But as we move into a new arena for the group, it is clear they are now looking to break new ground as they deliver their sixth studio album 'As I Try Not To Fall Apart', a record that explores a more diverse direction throughout.

From the very beginning, 'As I Try Not To Fall Apart' looks to stand out against its predecessors. With the opening single 'Am I Really Going To Die' heading down an almost 80s David Bowie avenue with its bold and bouncing basslines, it instantly becomes clear that this new collection is moving in a flow all of its own when set against their catalogue to date. But despite its clearly more adventurous and explorative nature, White Lies have still managed to unveil a concise and succinct array of offerings that build on their previous sound, while also making moves towards something altogether different from start to finish.

Fans of the group will no doubt relish this new release, as 'As I Try Not To Fall Apart' makes for a wonderfully vibrant listen. With nods to prog-rock, electro-pop, and power-rock thrown about throughout, there is this endearing spark about this new LP, one that is hard to resist on numerous occasions.