Album Review: Milky Chance - Mind The Moon

Since crashing onto the airwaves in 2013 with megahit 'Stolen Dance', German duo Milky Chance have maintained a formidable following – clocking up appearances at Glastonbury and Coachella, and smashing through the two-billion streams mark.

On their new album, Mind The Moon, Milky Chance rely on this winning formula, playing it safe with their trademark effortless folktronica grooves, reggae-flavoured beats and breezy singalong hooks. While opener 'Fado', styled after the traditional form of Portugese singing of the same name, hints at the offbeat sensibilities that have always been integral to the duo's sound, it soon becomes apparent that Milky Chance's well-established brand of chill-pop struggles to find its footing in 2019.

While there's nothing on Mind The Moon to seriously rival the all-conquering power of 'Stolen Dance', the album often shines in its least expected moments. 'Daydreaming', featuring Australia's rapidly rising alt-rock star Tash Sultana, is a standout, leaning into an increasingly psychedelic sound. The collaboration with Ladysmith Black Mambazo, 'Eden's House', is another highlight – gradually building into one of the most moving tracks on the album, with the South African group bringing a deeper dimension to Milky Chance's comparatively light sound.

Milky Chance's latest offering is unlikely to keep you up at night – but is a pleasant, nod-along trip all the same.

6/10