Naima Bock – Below a Massive Dark Land (Blue Vinyl) (New Vinyl)

The second solo album by UK singer-songwriter Naima Bock, formerly of London band Goat Girl. Most of the writing of “Below A Massive Dark Land” was a solitary affair. It may not sound like it – it’s made up of strong, purposeful arrangements with a huge host of musicians, filled with cradling space and warm light. This will also come as a surprise to anyone who has seen Naima perform in the time since the release of her 2022 debut “Giant Palm”, which was undoubtedly a communal experience. However, the record is not a stark, stripped back affair. “Below A Massive Dark Land” still has the majesty that made “Giant Palm” so remarkable. Having tugged the first record down from the skies and spreading it across the earth, Naima finds a newfound vocal power and confidence born from hundreds of hours on stage, and the music sounds fuller, more tangible, and no less enveloping.