We already knew them from some floor-filling singles—Running Out Of Time b/w Apres Jeudi made it onto my year-end list—but British garage psych outfit The Crystal Teardrop also manages to captivate with a full-length album. On their aptly titled first LP The Crystal Teardrop…Is Forming, Alexandra Rose (vocals, guitar, mandola), Leon Jones (lead guitar), Stuart Gray (organ), Ed Quigley (bass, vocals), and Huw Woodward (drums) put their own spin on the analogue and kaleidoscopic sound that came to fruition in the rich 1960s (lyrically, I can’t help but hear all sorts of subtle and not-so-subtle references to that era, like “No more talk of yesterday” and “I hope it’s not too late”, although they’re actually used in a different context). Adding influences from the various revivals of the past 60 years, but more importantly a good sense of pop music, a healthy dose of creativity, and a toolbox of skills, there is much to enjoy in this versatile and sumptuous 42 minute trip. Consciousness-expanding.

The Crystal Teardrop…Is Forming—produced by Liam Watson—is out now digitally, on CD and vinyl LP, through Rise Above Records / Popclaw Records.

Add to wantlist: Bandcamp || Rise Above