Reviewer: Cameron Sinclair Harris
Released: 14th February 2025
Label: Young
‘Like A Ribbon’ marks an impressively assured debut from John Glacier, showcasing a sound that is all-encompassing. The album sometimes feels surreal, with the swirling arcade synths in ‘Emotions’ crafting a buoyant, weightless atmosphere; meanwhile, the lo-fi guitar and raw vocals of ‘Satellites’ create a sense of intimacy reminiscent of a personal voice note. The anxious track ‘Nevasure’ is beautifully countered by the euphoric, glitchy rhythms of ‘Found,’ offering a cathartic release following the previous track's tension. The standout track ‘Dancing In The Rain’ features her declaring, “I’ll be dancing in the street, let them think I’m insane,” capturing a weightless, breathless feeling, free from worry or stress. By not overemphasizing emotions, John’s delivery becomes even more impactful. Executive producer Kwes Darko imbues the album with a sense of buoyancy as infectious beats blend with John’s relaxed yet distinctive vocal style, while collaborations with Eartheater and Sampha enhance the overall experience without overshadowing her. An exemplary display of emotional build-up and release, ‘Like A Ribbon’ is a captivating offering.
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A perfect demonstration of building up and releasing emotions.