Review Summary: Nothing earth-shattering, but a very good start
As Isadora Eden’s debut record,
Forget What Makes It Glow adopts a low-key approach as a mostly gentle set of songs toeing the line between hushed singer-songwriter folk and dreamy gaze-pop, aided by a touch of the Gothic. Perhaps the most apt comparison to be found is Ellis’ 2020 album
Born Again, with a similar combination of depressive vibes, largely reserved vocals, and surprisingly prominent guitar work. The best moments here are when things let loose a little, like in “Haunted” when Eden’s voice rises above her usual murmur atop a chiming musical backdrop, or in various songs when tasteful guitar solos help provide a sense of climax to the proceedings. Most of the tunes, though, are content to provide moody atmospherics, and it’s certainly enough - this album is remarkably listenable, even on repeat. Year-defining highlights might not be found here, but
Forget What Makes It Glow is a thoroughly enjoyable first full-length which suggests plenty of potential in Isadora Eden’s future endeavors.
