Gloria are an Indie-Rock sextet from Lyon in the South East of France. After the desire to create a 60s style girl group, the band was formed from a multitude of individual artists. Following their first album tour across Europe, two further EPs were released in 2018. Gloria returned on 5th March 2021 with their psychedelic pagan rock album Sabbat Matters. 

Sabbat Matters is the opening track of the album, and what a track it is. Discovered by my dad through the phenomenal BBC Radio 6 Music, the song has real psychedelic authenticity that sounds like it could be from a musical - in fact, it sounds like ‘Aquarius’ from the hit musical Hair. The song twists and turns from smooth and silky 60s rock to hard hitting psychedelic enchantment with rich vocal harmonies and experimental instrumentation, the song is truly captivating. 

We move onto the similar but perfectly complementing ‘Holy Water’ next. Despite comparable themes, there’s a heavier rock and roll influence and, in general, the song sounds less wishy-washy but equally as dreamy. The vocals are sharper and a prominent beat keeps things tight until the spectacularly hypnotic chorus arrives. 

The unaccompanied vocal opening in ‘Space Rocket’ rolls into a new acoustic sound, presenting a new side to this album. Funky lyrics are assisted by even funkier music due to the blaring trumpets and striking guitar chords. 

‘Miss Tambourine’ is percussion heavy with a prominent and unpredictable vocal melody. The song gradually grows as a dirty bass line, harmonies, and “oohs” and “aahs” join the mix. An explosion of sound erupts as the song becomes energetically staccato while time is given for an epic instrumental where the impressive abilities of these musicians are displayed. 

‘Skeletons’ is sweeter as an ascending xylophone takes centre stage. The differing vocals and unpredictable moments of music are exciting as we never know what will come next. 

With an introduction that parallels ‘Sabbat Matters’, it’s impossible to be disappointed with ‘You Had It All’. The slower tempo and similar sound is beautiful and offers a perfect break to the upbeat psychedelic sensation of previous songs. The song is liberating as musically, it’s airy and explosive with emotive lyrics. 

‘Back in Town’ is an extreme feel good track. It’s Summery and radiates positivity, the broken melody of the electric guitar is exceptionally catchy. Vocal melodies are even more catchy and enjoyable as they take us on many conflicting journeys. 

The synth heavy ‘Dance With Death’ plays with similar vibrant themes as previously, despite the undoubtedly sorrowful name. Possibly the most simple song on the album, it doesn’t lack that well known energy as the pure sound is beautifully refreshing and emotive. 

The voice and guitar in ‘Night Biting’ flow with one another as solo guitar moments are jutting, as are the thrashing drums. Lead vocals flourish as they are perfectly supported by just as impressive backing vocals. 

‘Global Warning’ is a stand out ending as we are left with a harsh message and one that has true meaning to the current climate of the crisis we find ourselves in. The music perfectly displays the title of the song as it sounds drastic and is full of panic. No points are left untouched as sound is constantly buzzing and bubbling. The song fits in but also stands out wonderfully and is a grand ending to an impeccable album. 

Review by Martha Greer