Lebanese duo Snakeskin has released their sophomore album, 'They Kept Our Photographs', through London’s Mais Um label. Building on the sound established in their critically acclaimed self-titled debut, the album delves deeper into dark folk-tronic elements while blending shoegaze and dreampop.
The album's opening track, 'Sunburst', sets a dynamic tone with its pulsing drums and ethereal vocals, establishing a contrast between unsettling imagery and haunting melodies. Following this is 'Bodies', which combines luminous dream-pop with vivid, unsettling lyrical themes, showcasing the duo's ability to fuse beauty with raw emotion.
Musically, the album incorporates excursions into hyperpop and electronica, expanding Snakeskin’s signature sound. Tracks like 'In My Life' feature glassy ambience, while 'Homecoming' plays with auto-tune and highlife-like percussion, reflecting the duo’s experimental approach. The production remains intricate, with layered synths and complex rhythms that evoke a sense of both intimacy and dislocation.
Throughout the album, themes of violence and resilience are explored, anchored by a sonic palette that reflects the duo's experiences in Beirut. The lyrical content addresses contemporary struggles while maintaining a sense of hope and love, culminating in a soundscape that resonates with emotional depth.
'They Kept Our Photographs' establishes Snakeskin as a significant force in the contemporary music scene, marked by their distinctive blend of genres and poignant storytelling.
