Review of Alice and the Glass Lake album ‘CHIMÆRA’

Alice and the Glass Lake released the new album, CHIMÆRA, on Nov. 18. This dream-pop album features light vocals and electronic-lyrical inclinations.

Alice and the Glass Lake released the new album, CHIMÆRA, on Nov. 18. This project is by Alice Lake – a Wisconsin native, who found inspiration through visits to the Glass Lake. This record is attributed entirely to Lake, though she brings on other musicians for the purposes of live performances. This dream-pop album features light vocals, lyrical soundscapes and electronic inclinations.

“Imagine” opens CHIMÆRA with a steady build-up. It begins with sounds that seem grounded in earthy-tones. However, it dives into a pop sensibility rather quickly. At times, hints of Celtic folk-inspired qualities wave through the track. Though the ingredients in “Imagine” are interesting, the whole product turns out to be less inspiring. An added spark is needed to set Alice and the Glass Lake apart.

The second track, “Echo,” falls into a similar pattern as “Imagine.” The third track steps up though, creating greater interest. Entitled “Can’t Do A Thing,” this song is arranged in such a way that Lake’s lyrics come through clearly. Additionally, the dynamics are attention grabbing, pulling listeners along. The electronic instrumentation here comes across as full orchestral rather than contrived. This is one of the most successful tracks on CHIMÆRA.

 Varied results from Alice and the Glass Lake

As CHIMÆRA moves onward, Lake’s compositions vary in effectiveness. None of them are difficult to listen to. However, many merely drift into the background with ease. The artist’s vocals are frequently Dido-esque, with the addition of a commercial pop treatment. A handful of songs do jump in a positive manner though, regaining audience attention.

Among these standout tracks are “Beast” and “Begin.” “Beast” sees Lake break her vocal pattern in an appealing way. Though it still follows a pop-pattern, it maintains a driving sense throughout. The guitar work mid-track helps to break things up here as well. “Begin” sits at the other end of the spectrum. A gentle and simple track, this song feels genuine and human. Both are solid pieces from Alice and the Glass Lake.

Overall, CHIMÆRA is a middle of the road effort from Alice and the Glass Lake. While many ingredients and some tracks are well done as a whole it falls short. It will be interesting to see how Lake progresses from here.