The Danish quintet Lowly have returned with a remarkably positive release. Keep Up The Good Work, out tomorrow on Bella Union is a warm record, full of genuine good will. And I can't quite remember the last time I've ever used that as praise for a band's output.
"Seasons" glides by on a sly rhythmic hook, with vocals from Soffie Viemose offering up a natural quality at odds with the electronic elements in the material. Elsewhere, the title track provides a sense of empathy and goodwill, a pop song that's more than just an ode to love itself, while "Feel Someone" is a down-tempo charmer. The tune has a graceful amble about it, such that when it builds a bit, it's hardly noticed, but felt very much by an attentive listener. "You are Good and I Love You" is the brightest and peppiest thing here, though the whole long-player serves as a sort of set of affirmations in a way. It's an inviting record, one where it feels like a blanket being draped over your shoulders on a cold evening. This might be an odd way to describe a rock album, but this is not your ordinary rock album, I guess.
Keep Up the Good Work by Lowly is out tomorrow on Bella Union.
[Photo: Lowly Bandcamp]