Album review: Acopia - Blush Response

Acopia recorded some of this album in an abandoned rooftop office. In a time where young people are struggling to build traditional careers, it feels apt - the tidal wave of melancholy pop mirrors our time.

Acopia fit into the wallowing, searching, questioning spate of bands we have, but find themselves ahead of the pack. In the 2020s, musicians who recall Slowdive or This Mortal Coil are not hard to come by, but the Australian outfit is showing more promise as they develop.

A debut album and international presence under their belts, the Melbourne group are now staking their claim in a crowded scene - and succeeding.

Blush Response makes up for in depth what it lacks in range. The incorporation of drum machines and glitches is welcome in Acopia's doomed world. Falling, nestled in the middle of the tracklist, is the shiniest of the batch of songs and would be a fantastic addition to any nighttime playlist.

However, the album's shade and shade approach does have some lighter moments, including the defiant Falter and the aquatic Real Life. But all the songs fit into the sadscape, punctuated with varied and interesting drum patterns.

With plenty of quirks, Acopia are memorable, but not yet compelling. Kate Durman's voice is haunting and hushed, but the lyrics do not evoke any imagery. The instrumentals firmly place the listener into themselves, contextualising, justifying, and rationalising. The album pleases, but does not revolutionise.

It's lonely music, which is an emotion many of us feel a lot of the time. When you're feeling deeply isolated, Acopia will be there to keep you company.

Acopia tour Europe until September 27.