The English alternative indie rock band Low Island returns with their third studio album, bird, released on May 29th following 2022’s Life In Miniature. Known for their blend of electronic textures and indie rock sensibilities, the band has gradually built a loyal following. The singles released earlier this year already hinted at a diverse sonic palette — from the pulsing electronica of “follow your direction”, to the gritty urgency of “spit it out”, and the beautiful moving “this is water”. But do these tracks offer a true glimpse of the album’s overall sound, or do they only scratch the surface of a deeper, more layered work?
Listening to bird for the first time feels more like an exploration than an immediate revelation. It’s an album that doesn’t hand itself over too easily — some tracks require time and attention, which may well be the mark of music that’s built to last. The opener, “only you”, begins with a quiet intensity, hinting at something simmering beneath the surface. That tension slowly builds, eventually breaking into a striking burst of guitars. The momentum continues into “spit it out”, a raw, guitar-driven protest track aimed at the billionaire elite and the overwhelming difficulty of resisting their grip. It’s a memorable early track that stands out for its intensity and directness
“this is water” stands out as one of the album’s most beautiful moments. Its delicate melodies and gentle instrumentation create a soothing atmosphere that feels deeply intimate. The vocals carry a tender vulnerability, especially during the chorus, which resonates with a quiet emotional weight. After the more intense and energetic tracks, this song offers a moment of calm reflection — a breath of fresh air that invites the listener to pause and truly feel.
“this is water” live from The National Ballet
Moving on to another highlight, “once in a while” stood out to me from the very first listen. With its infectious rhythm, it quickly became one of the album’s biggest surprises. There’s something in the tone of the drums and guitars — a slightly metallic, percussive edge — that reminds me of a mix between There There and Go to Sleep by Radiohead. It’s a sound that cuts through, sharp yet melodic, giving the track a restless energy that feels both familiar and fresh within the context of the album.
And that’s honestly how the whole album feels to me. It moves smoothly between lighter, more optimistic songs and darker, moodier ones, with occasional bursts of electronica — you can really hear that on “follow your direction”. The energy shifts from calm and mellow to more intense and edgy, like on “machine lover”. But even with all these different moods, the album still feels like one complete, connected story.
So, in the end, those early singles do offer a glimpse into bird’s world — but only a glimpse. The full album reveals a broader emotional and sonic range, full of detail and intention. Produced by Chris Taylor of Grizzly Bear at the renowned La Frette Studios in Paris, bird carries a rich, atmospheric quality that enhances its depth and cohesion. It’s not just a collection of songs, but a carefully crafted experience that rewards patient listening. Bird proves that Low Island continues to evolve, pushing their sound in new directions while staying true to their unique voice.
It’s complex but delicate, with a roughness around the edges that feels genuine. There’s something restless about it — like it’s alive and always moving. That’s what makes it so interesting to keep coming back to, discovering something new each time.
Low Island is hitting the road with album release shows in May and June, and their full tour kicks off in October, taking them through the UK, Germany, the Netherlands, France, and Poland. Don’t miss out! For details and tickets, click here.
Tracklist
only you
spit it out
this is water
once in a while
great dream
follow your direction
machine lover
little bird
mind’s eye
stop the morning traffic
