After the runaway success of their debut Terrapath, which cemented their place in the UK’s prog-rock scene, Plantoid return with their sophomore release Flare—an enigmatic, arresting, and at times downright catchy evolution of their sound. Staying true to their math-rock roots with heavy guitar licks, tempo changes, and mind-altering progressions, the album pushes into new territories of shoegaze and vocal-forward rock-pop.
Made up of vocalist/guitarist Chloe Spence, drummer Louis Bradshaw, and guitarist Tom Coyne, Plantoid wrote much of Flare during a retreat in Anglesey, where late-night jam sessions birthed sprawling, groove-driven tracks. With producer and live member Nathan Ridley, they honed a sound that is both intricate and expansive, sitting in the music and letting ideas fully unfold.
From the raucous three-minute burst of “Splatter” to the labyrinthine six-minute single “Dozer,” Flare showcases both the heaviness and delicate intricacy that define Plantoid. Tracks like “Ultivatum Cultivatum,” “The Weaver,” and closer “Daisy Chains” highlight Chloe’s vocals more than ever, layering dreamlike melodies over expansive soundscapes.
Always pushing forward, Plantoid remain one of the UK’s most imaginative rock bands—fearless in their exploration, and thrilling in their live performances.