Photo Credit: Sarah Grace

The new album everyone should be talking about: PASTEL‘s ‘Souls In Motion‘.

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Following the release of their three remarkable EPs, PASTEL are stepping into the next chapter of their musical journey with their highly anticipated debut album, Souls In Motion. The name Pastel has gained significant attention over the past couple of years, largely due to their rise as one of Liam Gallagher’s musical obsessions. The band even had the honour of supporting the iconic frontman during his iconic shows at Knebworth Park in June 2022.

As an avid follower of the 2024 music scene, I’ve been waiting for a release that embodies the essence of Manchester while offering something fresh and original. With their latest work, PASTEL has undeniably achieved that perfect balance. The album carries the spirit of a new era, encapsulated in lyrics like “you’ve got to try and find another way,” while seamlessly combining elements and sounds reminiscent of bands such as The Stone Roses, The Verve, and Oasis. This sentiment is further emphasized by the fact that it marks their first foray into writing their own songs entirely without the help of a songwriter, infusing the record with a raw sense of vulnerability and authenticity. Throughout the album, Pastel delves into themes of unseen violence and psychological danger lurking in the world, yet their music ultimately offers a message of resilience and the power to overcome.

The first track, ‘Hero’s Blood‘ opens with a strobe-like effect built up by guitar, immediately pulling us into the era and world of their new music, setting the tone for what’s to come. The song carries an uplifting sense of hope and belief in change, offering a powerful message in a world that often feels static. With the line “I don’t look down anymore,” it expresses a sense of personal empowerment whilst possibly serving as a metaphor for letting go of the past as they enter their new era. The unity within the band is palpable, with each member contributing to the song’s dynamic energy, while the incredible vocals elevate the track to new heights. Just when you think the song has reached its peak, it continues to build, growing in intensity and emotion. ‘Hero’s Blood‘ not only stands out as a highlight but also sets the bar for the rest of the album, raising expectations for what’s to follow.

The second track, ‘Your Day’ opens with a catchy drum beat that immediately captivates, laying down a rhythmic pulse that drives the song forward with undeniable energy. As the track unfolds, the rest of the band’s instruments weave in effortlessly, creating a rich and immersive soundscape that highlights the extraordinary synergy among the members. The lyrics, such as “I know you got the violence to fight again someday” and the repeated refrain “Don’t sit around and hide, for this is your day,” carry a powerful message of resilience and self-empowerment, inspiring listeners with their heartfelt delivery. The repetition of the refrain adds to the song’s anthemic quality, making it both memorable and deeply moving. Lines like “Don’t lose your faith” and “Some things never change” are both reflective and motivating, perfectly balancing acknowledgment of struggle with a call to persevere. The result is a song that not only resonates emotionally but also showcases the band’s exceptional talent and unity, making ‘Your Day‘ a standout triumph on the album.

While the rest of the tracks on the album are undeniably strong, ‘Leave a Light On (A Velvet Storm)‘ stands out precisely because of how different it is. Anchored by a gentle piano melody, the track radiates a homely warmth that contrasts beautifully with its poignant lyrics, such as “no way to show you now that you’re gone.” The phrase “living a velvet storm” invites reflection—what is a velvet storm? Perhaps it speaks to navigating chaos with grace or finding softness amid turbulence. Already released as a teaser for the album, this song has stood the test of time, perfectly capturing the mood and anticipation of what’s to come. Its presence on the record reinforces its significance, offering a moment of introspection in an otherwise dynamic collection.

‘Souls In Motion‘ is a game-changing debut from PASTEL, showcasing a band ready to leave their mark on the music scene. With a mix of raw emotion, catchy hooks, and powerful lyrics, this album is impossible to ignore. Tracks like ‘Hero’s Blood‘ and ‘Your Day‘ are bound to get stuck in your head, while the reflective beauty of ‘Leave a Light On (A Velvet Storm)‘ proves the band’s depth. If you’ve been waiting for something fresh that captures the spirit of Manchester while offering a new sound, this is the album to watch out for. Pastel have created something special here—don’t miss it when it drops.

Words by Rosie Arron