We’ve been fans of The Crystal Teardrop for awhile now so were delighted when their debut album, The Crystal Teardrop…Is Forming, crossed our metaphorical desk.

By Graeme Smith

Feature photo by Sam Scott Hunter

…Is Forming is a collection of twelve psychedelic tracks that harken back to the hazy heyday of the 1960s. The band’s distinct sound is introduced by the dreamy harmonies of Colours Changing, giving a strong first impression.

Providing some immediate contrast is the defiant, driving rock of Through With You which proves an early highlight. Other highlights include the bright and groovy The Rain Parade in which the vocals prove their charisma, and the richly experimental For One More Day.

Nine Times Nine has previously appeared on our blog and in the context of the album provides an emotional penultimate chapter before the album’s title track, …Is Forming, closes things with a steadily unfolding trip. Opening stripped-back with meandering guitar, it unfolds into a noodling wonder.

Hailing from Stoke-on-Trent, Alexandra Rose, Leon Adrian, Stuart Gray, Edmund Quigley, and Huw Woodward aka The Crystal Teardrop take their cues from the likes of The Byrds, The Who, and beyond. There’s a buzz growing about them and you can certainly count me as a fan.

…Is Forming is out now via Rise Above Records subsidiary Popclaw, available to buy on limited edition vinyl, CD and as a download on Bandcamp. You can give it a listen below.