Album Review: The Aces - When My Heart Felt Volcanic

The Aces are a young four-piece with fierce talent, but we're not sure When My Heart Felt Volcanic truly showcases it just yet.

It's an ambitious debut album that's hard not to label as straight-up pop. Opener Volcanic Love sets the tone for what's to come; catchy hooks led by vocalist and guitarist Cristal Ramirez and backed by romantic harmonies from guitarist Katie Henderson. Just Like That is a feel-good break-up anthem. Written like a letter to an ex, Ramirez contemplates whether the relationship has anything left. It's fun and upbeat with sassy lines, as well as some lazy ones, such as "I took a car to your place/ I wanted to see your face".

Halfway through the album it's obvious the themes and sounds aren't going to change much and by the time you reach its midpoint Strong Enough it feels like it has already played a few times before. Stay is a rhythm section-heavy tune showcasing strong vocals and obvious talent from all four members. The final track Waiting For You has a softer tone, yet more evidence that Ramirez has an incredibly vast range of vocals powered by tones of vulnerability.

When My Heart Felt Volcanic is fun and upbeat, but there's a sense that it would have caught far more attention in the early noughties.