Not a record for everyone, ‘Nothing Against Uplifting, But…’ is a slice of vintage energy and new wave revival, delivered through the charismatic and unapologetic artistic stylings of Alice Gift. Berlin-based creative with a knack for dark textures and retro synthetisers, Gift finds his ideal background in anthemic and eclectic matter, channelling post-punk euphoria and dramatic art-pop lyricism. It’s quite fantastic, really: through seven dynamic offerings, Gift reveals his love for icy drum machines, spacious vocals and leftfield electronica.
‘To Live and Die in L.A.’ is possibly our favourite track of the album, an obscure 80s cut with italo disco and new wave flavourings. ‘Pride’ instead goes full retro-pop, with a fast-paced British-inspired colourful arrangement. ‘This Time’ is the most atmospheric and poignant offering in the record, with its bright chords and abstract drones.
Speaking about the record, Gift explains: “It’s taken me a long time to put out a new record, but I hope it’s been worth the wait, because I think it’s become something quite heterogeneous, with a drama worthy of me. Again, almost everything on this record was done by myself, partly in the recording studio (Salon-Berlin), partly at home, as well as a few drum recordings in the rehearsal room. I hope you like the new sounds, bon voyage.”
Recommended! Discover ‘Nothing Against Uplifting, But…’ on Spotify:
