Album Review: Archive – “Glass Minds”

A Minimalist Triumph From the UK Collective

With the release of their 13th studio album, Glass Minds, Archive prove once again that they are one of the most adventurous and enduring forces in British alternative music.

For nearly three decades, the genre-defying collective has continuously expanded its musical universe. From the trip-hop foundations of their first records to the progressive rock that they’ve blended to perfection with electronic music, Archive never stand still. Over the years the lineup has evolved around founding members Darius Keeler and Danny Griffiths, with each album revealing a distinct identity — sometimes progressive rock-driven, sometimes electronic, with hints of hip-hop. Their music can be emotionally overwhelming or aerial and meditative.

Their previous release, Call To Arms & Angels (2022), was a product of its time, dense and intense reflecting the pandemic era in which it was written. Glass Minds musically feels like its natural successor, yet it also feels like a liberation. Where its predecessor was intense and heavy, this new record is minimalist, spacious, and quietly powerful. A breath of fresh air — and arguably one of Archive’s finest albums to date.

The album opens with the ominous instrumental “Broken Bits,” where menacing horns gradually dissolve into something lighter, setting the emotional tone for what follows. It’s a slow unveiling into clarity.

The title track, “Glass Minds,” is a striking standout. Lisa Mottram’s vocals float over a stripped-back instrumental and primal drumbeat. An incredibly effective combination.

“Patterns” served as the album’s creative compass. Darius Keeler said about it “The Album all started after we composed the song Patterns. We really loved the space and minimalistic power of the song, it reminded us of our debut album Londinium, and how we approached writing at that time – heavy rhythm with a melancholy that penetrates the soul.”

“Look At Us” pivots toward Archive’s rock facet, letting distorted guitars surge forward while synths momentarily take a step back. The shift in texture adds dynamic contrast to the album’s overall atmosphere.

Pollard Berrier shines on “When You’re This Down,” delivering a compelling vocal performance. The repeating riff is hypnotic, anchoring the song in a trance-like momentum.

“So Far From Losing You,” nearing the eight-minute mark, is a sweeping love letter. Long compositions are not unusual for a band comfortable with ten to fifteen-minute epic songs. Lisa Mottram and Pollard Berrier’s voices intertwine beautifully, elevating the emotional aspect of the track.

“Wake Up Strange” introduces an infectious, almost 80s-tinged melody that lingers long after the song ends. It’s arguably the catchiest moment on the album.

“City Walls” delivers one of those signature Archive experiences: hypnotic arpeggios, immersive layers, and vocals that slowly take hold of your subconscious. Few bands master this kind of slow-burning intensity quite like they do.

“Shine Out Power” arrives with raw force, sounding massive and immediate. It feel almost visceral with raw, scorching vocals that hit you in the face.

“Heads Are Gonna Roll” feels like a throwback to the Controlling Crowds era. Marking Jimmy Collins’ first recorded appearance with Archive (though he previously toured with the band covering for former rapper Rosko John), the track injects a familiar rhythmic into the album’s final stretch.

The record closes with “Where I Am,” a mellow and fitting conclusion, reflective and perfectly placed.

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Three decades into their career, Archive appear to be at their peak. The band has been filling increasingly larger arenas across Europe, cementing their status as a true powerhouse of the alternative and progressive music scene in the other side of the pond.

In a long-awaited news announcement, Archive has announced their first-ever US tour; a significant moment for American fans who have waited years to experience their incredible and immersive live performances. The tour concludes at the Lodge Room in Los Angeles — a rare and intimate opportunity for lucky Angelenos.

Archive is not just a band you listen to — they are a band you experience. When they step onto a stage, time simply stops. Their live shows unfold like cinematic journeys, immersive and transportive.

Since moving to the United States, I often wondered whether I would ever get to see one of my favorite bands perform again. It turns out, I will. And if Glass Minds makes for most of the setlist, the wait would have been worth it.

Recent Album Reviews from Manuel: 

Puscifer – “Normal Isn’t”

Black Pistol Fire – “Flagrant Act of Bliss”

Dry Cleaning – “Secret Love”