Light Information

Sub Pop

Three years on from his last album, the widely acclaimed Shrink Dust, Canadian singer, composer, multi instrumentalist, director and artist Chad Van Gaalen returns with his charming and immersive sixth studio album. Light Information is full of the dynamic artist’s shimmering summer melodies, jangly pop tunes, psychedelic excursions and pacey indie rock sounds. Although dealing with themes including paranoia, isolation and disembodiment, the record is full of warmth, empathy and human touch. With a distinct personal and intimate feel on the record, Van Gaalen lets us into his dreamy, laidback world but at the same time injects a pace and energy that creates an addictive drive and momentum. The guitars are hazy but with a rough, raw edge, just as the bass is rugged yet warm and cosy. Light Information has an open and inclusive feel that seems to unfurl with natural ease throughout. It is this playfulness that brings out Van Gaalen’s creativity into fullest view. His confident songwriting and beaming vocals bring the record’s crowning fun and charisma into full focus. Tom Jones