Cloth – Secret Measure

A meditative body of work specked with spots of boldness, Secret Measure weaves new colours into Cloth’s musical fabric

Album Review by Jamie Wilde | 01 May 2023
  • Cloth - Secret Measure
Album title: Secret Measure
Artist: Cloth
Label: Rock Action
Release date: 5 May

Cloth have embraced new approaches in the creation of their anticipated second record. Formed of duo Rachael and Paul Swinton, changing their recording style and working with new faces brings a braver sense of musical direction to Secret Measure than their first LP. It never strays too far from the band’s distinctly understated sound – consequently making some of the tracks feel a little samey. However, much like Cloth themselves, it’s within the subtleties of this record where the stand out features lie.

Rachael’s hushed, almost whispered vocals are enveloping; like gentle clouds of sea mist settling onto the shoreline. The lyrics may have all been written by Paul, but they’re undoubtedly imbued with Rachael’s own experiences through her delicate delivery. Tracks like Pigeon show the band at their most refined yet, brimming with dynamic arrangements and upbeat undertones. Never Know correlates by leaning into poppy tendencies.

But it’s within the album’s varying textures where Cloth’s boldness shines. Neat layers of guitars, synthesisers and molecular-like rhythms intertwine in sync with one another, and each of them are a joy to unravel. A meditative body of work specked with spots of boldness, Secret Measure weaves new colours into Cloth’s musical fabric.

Listen to: Pigeon, Money Plant

http://clothband.com