Braids - Deep in the Iris

Braids
Deep in the Iris
2015

Wow. There are times when an album shocks you due to its power or aggression, and then there are the times when you are shocked because you've never heard something so simple and beautiful. Braids' third album Deep in the Iris is that album. Everything on this record is understated, Braids have left their heavy electronic vibe (think Purity Ring) on Deep in the Iris and instead have opted for a more organic in the moment feel. There is no essence of the future on this record instead Braids harken back to the past in an attempt to deal with losing someone's love. The album is profoundly sad and lonely, but somehow it is never depressing. Raphaelle Standall-Preston sings about getting a dog just to deal with the lonliness on "Bunny Rose" and you can't help but feel that twinge of sadness that is so intertwined with the human condition.

This record feels so human and so real which is a real treat on an "electronic" album. The splashy drums and consistent piano also ground the album with a jazz sensibility without making it unapproachable. "Taste" is perhaps the standout on the record of giants, it deals with the feeling that the person who you loved never really leaves you and what that means for going on. I cannot recommend this record enough. Briads have truly done something special with this album and it is not one to be missed.

9 out of 10