Ultrasound by Palace

Palace – Ultrasound 

Emerging from the vibrant London indie scene in the early 2010s, Palace has always been a band that thrives on emotional resonance and atmospheric beauty. Formed by childhood friends Leo Wyndham (vocals, guitar), Rupert Turner (guitar), and Will Dorey (bass), with Matt Hodges joining later on drums, Palace quickly gained a loyal following. Their journey began with two EPs, Lost in the Night and Chase the Light, which laid the groundwork for their highly-acclaimed debut album So Long Forever. Over the years, they’ve cemented their reputation as purveyors of stirring indie rock, seamlessly blending introspection with cinematic grandeur.

Fast forward to 2024, and Palace’s fourth album, Ultrasound, marks a new chapter in their story. Reflective and profoundly emotional, the album feels like a diary written during turbulent yet transformative times. Following the band's knack for melding ethereal instrumentation with raw lyricism, Ultrasound amplifies their artistry, offering a poignant exploration of themes such as grief, connection, and self-discovery.

Emotional Opener Sets the Stage

The album opens with “When Everything Was Lost,” a sweeping anthem driven by thunderous drums and layered strings. This track immediately pulls listeners into the heart of the record, setting the tone for an album that wrestles with existential questions while radiating glimmers of hope. Palace’s music has always had an otherworldly quality, and this opening track feels like both a welcome back and an invitation to explore the uncharted corners of their sonic world.

Intimacy and Honesty

One of the standout tracks is “Son,” a hauntingly intimate piece that delves into the complexities of familial relationships. “I think it’s been a while since they called you son,” Wyndham croons with palpable tenderness, as the song unfurls like a deeply personal letter. Its warmth lies in its relatability - the reassurance of being seen and supported in one’s most vulnerable moments.

“Bleach” and the Strength of Singles

Leading the album’s promotional campaign, “Bleach” exemplifies Palace’s ability to craft timeless indie tracks. Bright guitars and Wyndham’s earnest vocals lend the track a sunlit melancholy, blending lightness and depth in perfect harmony. Like much of Palace’s repertoire, “Bleach” feels like it was crafted for both festival fields and late-night headphone sessions.

Two Halves, One Story

Structurally, Ultrasound takes listeners on a journey. The first half delves into themes of nostalgia and heartbreak, woven together with lush instrumentation and emotive lyrics. The instrumental track “Cocoon” serves as an interlude, allowing space to breathe before ushering in the album’s second act - a collection of songs brimming with love and acceptance. Tracks like “Make You Proud” and “Inside My Chest” signal a brighter outlook, reflecting the resilience that comes from navigating life’s hardships.

A Climactic Farewell

The closing track, “Goodnight Farewell,” is a masterpiece of build and release. Spanning nearly six minutes, it combines swelling guitar chords, evocative 80s-inspired synths, and a string arrangement that culminates in a cacophonous, heart-wrenching climax. It’s a cinematic ending, leaving listeners with a sense of closure while allowing room for personal interpretation.

A Band Still Growing

While Ultrasound doesn’t veer too far from Palace’s established sound, it demonstrates their growth both as musicians and storytellers. Each track feels purposeful, a piece of a larger puzzle that comes together to form a richly layered narrative.

For fans of Palace and newcomers alike, Ultrasound is an album that rewards patience and attentiveness. It’s a record meant to be felt as much as heard - a fitting addition to a band’s discography that has always worn its heart on its sleeve.

In Ultrasound, Palace delivers an album that mirrors the messy, beautiful intricacies of life itself - complex, comforting, and ultimately cathartic.