Review of Cloth’s album ‘Pink Silence’ featured on When The Horn Blows
Cloth’s latest album, ‘Pink Silence’, showcases the dynamic duo from Glasgow in all their musical glory. The Swinton twins, Paul and Rachael, have crafted a collection of songs that delve into uncharted territories of their creativity. Retaining their signature light touch in songwriting and instrumentation, the album also sees them venturing into uncharted waters with the help of producer Ali Chant and collaborators like Adrian Utley from Portishead and Stuart Braithwaite from Mogwai. The familiar guitar interplay that has defined their sound is now elevated with new textures and layers, setting the stage for a remarkable musical journey.
Following the success of their previous work, ‘Secret Measure’, which garnered a Scottish Album of The Year nomination in 2023, Cloth’s ‘Pink Silence’ is poised to make waves in 2025. The album takes its inspiration from Paul’s concept of ‘Pink Silence’, a state of mind evoked by the colors of the sky during sunrise and sunset. Described as a mix of serene bliss and ominous foreboding depending on one’s mindset, the album captures these emotional nuances seamlessly. The title track sets the tone for the album, with ethereal synth lines and Rachael’s haunting vocals creating a hypnotic atmosphere. As the song unfolds, layers of distorted guitars, harmonies, and a driving bassline add depth and urgency, hinting at the emotional rollercoaster to come.
One standout track, ‘The Cottage’, offers a moment of introspection amidst the album’s sonic landscape. Stripped back and meditative, the song explores themes of loss and appreciation for loved ones. Poignant lyrics like ‘Just know that you make me light’ convey a sense of profound connection and love, underscoring the emotional depth of Cloth’s songwriting. String orchestrations by Owen Pallett feature prominently throughout the album, adding a touch of elegance and melancholy to tracks like ‘Write it Down’, the closing song that ties up the album’s themes of acceptance and moving on.
The deliberate layering of sounds and motifs across ‘Pink Silence’ speaks to Cloth’s intention to let the music speak for itself. Each track serves as a musical journey, culminating in a message of letting go and embracing the unpredictable nature of life. As fans eagerly anticipate the album’s release, Cloth has announced a series of intimate shows and collaborations with artists like Mogwai and Hamish Hawk. From sold-out signing events to performances at iconic venues like the Glasgow Barrowlands Ballroom, Cloth’s upcoming shows promise to be a feast for the senses.
In a musical landscape filled with noise and chaos, Cloth’s ‘Pink Silence’ stands out as a testament to the power of introspection and artistry. With its rich textures, emotive lyrics, and poignant storytelling, the album invites listeners to embrace the beauty in vulnerability and the freedom in letting go. As Cloth continues to captivate audiences with their unique sound and profound narratives, ‘Pink Silence’ solidifies their place as one of Glasgow’s most promising musical acts.