Australian dream pop virtuoso Hatchie has returned with what might be her most compelling work to date. 'Liquorice', her third studio album, represents a significant evolution in her sound, blending ethereal textures with newfound emotional resonance that lingers long after the final notes fade.
The Evolution of a Sound
Where previous albums explored the boundaries of shoegaze and dream pop, 'Liquorice' sees Hatchie—real name Harriette Pilbeam—refining her craft to perfection. The album maintains the shimmering guitar work and hazy vocal layers that defined her earlier work, but there's a newfound confidence and clarity that elevates every track.
"This isn't just another dream pop record—it's a masterclass in atmospheric songwriting that manages to be both expansive and intimately personal," notes music critics. The production balances accessibility with artistic ambition, creating songs that could equally fill stadiums and headphones.
Standout Tracks That Captivate
The album opens with the mesmerising 'Rooftops', immediately establishing the record's immersive quality. Pilbeam's vocals float effortlessly over layered instrumentation, creating that signature dream pop atmosphere while introducing more complex rhythmic elements.
- 'Midnight Blue' showcases Hatchie's gift for crafting irresistible pop melodies wrapped in gauzy production
- 'Velvet Tears' demonstrates her lyrical maturity, exploring themes of love and loss with poetic precision
- 'Sugar High' delivers the album's most immediate moment, blending nostalgic 90s influences with contemporary production
A Cohesive Journey
What sets 'Liquorice' apart from much of the current dream pop landscape is its remarkable cohesion. Each track flows seamlessly into the next, creating an album that demands to be experienced as a complete work rather than a collection of singles.
The production choices feel intentional and purposeful, with every synth pad, guitar riff, and vocal harmony serving the song rather than overwhelming it. This restraint demonstrates Pilbeam's growth as both a songwriter and producer.
Beyond Dream Pop Conventions
While firmly rooted in the dream pop tradition, 'Liquorice' incorporates elements from adjacent genres without ever feeling derivative. Touches of synth-pop, indie rock, and even subtle electronic influences create a rich tapestry that rewards repeated listening.
"Hatchie has managed the difficult task of evolving her sound while staying true to what made her music special in the first place," observes the music press. The result is an album that feels both familiar and fresh—a difficult balance that few artists achieve so successfully.
The Verdict
With 'Liquorice', Hatchie has delivered not just one of the standout dream pop albums of the year, but a career-defining work that establishes her as one of the genre's most vital contemporary voices. The album's combination of atmospheric beauty, emotional depth, and impeccable songcraft makes it essential listening for anyone who appreciates thoughtfully crafted alternative music.
This is dream pop at its most immersive and emotionally resonant—an album that captures the magic of getting lost in sound while never losing sight of the human heart at its core.
