Friendly Fires - Inflorescent (LP)

After an eight-year hiatus, British indie pop trio Friendly Fires return with their third studio album, "Inflorescent," a vibrant and joyous collection of new rave and indie dance tracks that hark back to a time of funky optimism. Released on August 16, 2019, via Polydor Records, this 11-track album is a testament to the band's evolution, blending the smooth surfaces of house music with their signature indie pop style.

"Inflorescent" kicks off with the infectious "Can't Wait Forever," setting the tone for an album that's equal parts upbeat and introspective. The band explores themes of love, loss, and self-discovery throughout the record, with standout tracks like "Heaven Let Me In," "Love Like Waves," and "Run The Wild Flowers" showcasing their knack for crafting catchy melodies and anthemic choruses. The album also features a collaboration with Friend Within on the track "Offline."

While the album is undeniably fun and upbeat, it's not without its moments of vulnerability. Frontman Ed McFarlane has openly discussed the personal struggles that contributed to the band's hiatus, and tracks like "Lack Of Love" and "Cry Wolf" offer a glimpse into the introspection that went into creating "Inflorescent."

At just 44 minutes, "Inflorescent" is a concise and engaging listen from start to finish. Whether you're a longtime fan of Friendly Fires or a newcomer to their music, this album is sure to leave you tapping your toes and singing along. So, turn up the volume and let the infectious energy of "Inflorescent" transport you to a place of pure, unadulterated joy.

This LP was released in 2019.