Gorgeous, Glossy Soundscapes
David Holmes fourth solo album, ‘The Holy Pictures’ is a reflection on his life in Belfast, his family, friends and feelings following the death of his mother, Sarah in 1996. Knowing this, it’s a surprise to hear that it’s not an overtly sad of self-reflective album, perhaps this is because emotion is distilled through gloriously fuzzy guitars and ringing synths. Opener and single, ‘I Heard Wonders’ is a either an indie, shoegaze version of Velvet Underground, or a sexed up, messy version of indie pop, depending on which way you look at it. Either way, it’s a charming 5 ½ minute wonder itself, with enough gusto to keep on running for twice as long.
It’s no surprise to learn that Holmes has worked on plenty of film projects as the music has that subtle but glorious soundtrack edge about it, retaining a little modesty, but channelling enough energy to portray emotions tangibly. ‘Love Reign Over Me’, for example, is an upbeat expression of devotion and adoration, as well as a softcore psychedelic delight dripping in sumptuous electro trickery.
‘Story Of The Ink’ moves from brash, effects-laden guitars to delicate synth sighs in a few minutes. It’s a charming instrumental that has chord progressions simple and clear enough to feature in the Grade 1 electric guitar syllabus, but somehow still manages to impress with its minimalism. ‘Kill Her With Kindness’ is gently trippy with shudders of sleigh bells and echoing percussion like the click of boots on pavement as well as luscious vocals that seem to melt together.
There are some surreal and delicate instrumentals like, ‘Birth’ with its slow rush of shimmering sound, and ‘Hey Maggy’, which is unfortunately less memorable, but does have some nice use of piano.
Holmes manages to negotiate a path between grimey psychedelica and soft, lush pop, but there are moments where you long for the filthy riffs of real psychedelica and slightly wish that the tunes weren’t so restrained. Title track, ‘Holy Pictures’ is the closest to the chaotic tones of real psych rock with leering lyrics and more than a frisson of excitement in the swirling beats. ‘The Holy Pictures’ is an interesting album a wonderful collection of tunes to stick on in the background, whatever your mood, but if you’re looking for something grittier, then steer clear.