Vulnerability is subverted into strength on Petal's Magic Gone

Bounding straight in with “Better Than You”, Petal’s frontperson Kiley Lotz lures you into believing that maybe just this could be a heart-on-sleeve effort that uses joyous sounding music to sugar-coat the truth, which it does. Well, for a bit anyway.

Seemingly dealing with the harsh nature of the industry, it’s an open and honest account of the treacherous nature of the beast and the worms that feed on the inside. A bit intense, maybe, but when the sweet tones of "Tight Rope" kick in, you’re suddenly whisked into a scenario that feels contemplative of the weight of the earth and all it holds. Add in some dreamy, echo guitar sounds, and it all makes for a beautiful listen. The same appears with "I’m Sorry" - they test you by presenting existential ideas bathed in the light of a fading sun.

And then the turn happens. All of a sudden Lotz removes all additional noise and leaves just her dancing, floating vocals and guitar for the rest of the album. A bold move that implies the emotional connection is enough to keep you hooked in - which it is. The delicate nature springing forth shows that the weight of the words is all that’s needed, but the reverberant guitars - you can practically hear every string oscillating - provide the perfect backdrop.

Once finale "Stardust" swings into gear, the unsuspecting crescendo strikes hard and then it all makes sense. Listen carefully, because littered throughout are moments that appear throwaway but are truthfully priceless. Lotz knows how to craft her work, using every moment to her advantage resulting in an album that’s an absolute indie-emo masterpiece.