London Grammar - Californian Soil

by Nick Dent-Robinson

published: 5 / 5 / 2021

Label: Ministry of Sound
Format: CD

Accomplished combination of pop and balladry on latest album from Nottingham-formed trio London Grammar

Review

London Grammar's new album, ‘Californian Soil’, leans heavily on the group's proven pop credentials but also draws on their skill as moody balladeers. Very much at the front and centre of this record is London Grammar's singer Hannah Reid, 31, who formed the group with guitarist Dan Rothman and keyboardist Dot Major when they were all students at Nottingham University. Reid's vocals mix graceful femininity with real power and there are some vibrato ballads that reflect her classical training. Other tracks demonstrate Reid's remarkable ability to glide along an electronic groove whilst also underlining her command of quite tricky folk harmonies. ‘Californian Soil’ begins and ends with two songs about the USA. The title track is a pun on ‘California Soul’, a big 1960s R&B hit. The closing song ‘America” uses the States as a metaphor for Hannah's own insecurities as well as her ambition. The first half of the album is dominated by pop and dance with “How Does It Feel’ a a standout track whereas the second part of the record is more ballad-heavy, showcasing Hannah Reid's impressive range. The choral piece ‘All My Love’ is stunning! London Grammar - and Hannah Reid in particular – should be very happy with ‘Californian Soil’. It is an album which really underlines how accomplished this group now are.