Children of The Pope’s debut album Moonface Supreme feels like an electrifying dive into the darker corners of South London’s psych rock scene. Formed in 2018 by guitarist Guilherme Fells and frontman Juno Valentine, the band immediately carved out a reputation for themselves with chaotic live shows, and now they’ve captured that unfiltered energy on record.
Recorded over five intense days on reel-to-reel tape, the album has a visceral, live-in-the-room feel with twisted melodies and manic shouts that fill tracks. It allows Moonface Supreme to carry a rawness that feels untamed by modern production gloss.
Lead single “Kid” strikes a surreal balance between youthful exuberance and the inevitable melancholy of passing time. Meanwhile, their follow-up single, “I Go Downtown,” keeps things gritty with dirty guitars and relentless vocals.
The album swings between the sacred and profane, life and death, heaven and hell, all a surrealist take on the extremes of existence. Songs like “Kid” captures this mix with an off-kilter charm that feels as much about exploring inner turmoil as it does about revelling in the absurd.
The decision to discard computers and record live to tape gives Moonface Supreme a distinct edge. The imperfections and spontaneity lend to its authenticity, making each track feel like it’s unfolding in real-time. This approach connects directly with the band’s reputation for electrifying live performances.
With its surrealist touch and guitar work, Moonface Supreme is a debut that demands attention. It’s a ride through chaos and contemplation, where the sounds seem as unpredictable as the moods they invoke. If you’re ready for a psych rock experience that refuses to be boxed in, Children of The Pope are here to lead the way.
