The debut album Even Us Ghosts (out October 17), from indie-folk five-piece Bottlemoth, takes one on a sonic journey that blends the raw truths of life in your twenties. By weaving together themes of independence, heartbreak, mental health, and friendship, Bottlemoth transforms these challenging topics into something hopeful, leaving one feeling uplifted rather than weighed down.
Formed in early 2024, Bottlemoth has already made waves in the UK indie scene, sharing stages with acts like The Dangerous Summer, Adult Leisure, and Cold Years. But it’s with this album that the band truly carves out their identity. Not just in terms of their sound, but in their storytelling.
Bottlesmoth’sability to tell a story is what sets them apart. The band’s knack for blending personal experiences with universal emotions is what makes Even Us Ghosts worth a listen, no matter where you are in life. Whether or not you’ve faced these specific challenges yourself, the band’s sincerity leaves an impact that’s hard to ignore
While many indie-folk acts stick to familiar sounds, Bottlemoth isn’t afraid to experiment. Even Us Ghosts breaks open the genre’s boundaries, offering a broader sound palette. The band took a more experimental route by recording the album around laptops instead of the typical loud practice room setup, which allowed them to layer different textures into the songs. From subtle electronic elements to intricate arrangements, these nuanced choices demonstrate the group’s versatility and attention to detail.
Tracks like “Tattoo”, “Landslides (people change)” and “You’ll Always Have Us” highlight Bottlemoth’s ability to balance melancholic tones with hope. But it’s the final single, “Where Oceans Swallow Your Skies,” that ties everything together. Opening with a processed sample of the London Underground, the song touches on themes of isolation in crowded spaces. It’s a feeling many will recognise. Yet, as with the rest of the album, there’s an undercurrent of optimism, a reminder that even in the toughest moments, one is not alone.
The lyrics in Even Us Ghosts don’t offer solutions to life’s bigger questions, and that’s where their strength lies. Instead of trying to resolve every issue, the album leaves space for one to reflect on their own experiences. This sense of uncertainty feels genuine, and it’s what makes the album so compelling as it invites one to keep coming back for more.
Bottlemoth has created something that captures not just the highs and lows of life, but the in-between moments. The times when things feel unsettled, yet still worth exploring. For those navigating the complexities of early adulthood, Even Us Ghosts will feel like a companion. And for those past early adulthood, Even Us Ghosts will remind one how far they have come.
