It's no secret that mainstream indie is in a transition period right now. Commercially successful, established arena-fillers are either splitting up or fizzling out creatively and, particularly in Britain, the scene is crying out for an injection of excitement. Manchester quartet Pale Waves look set to provide just that with their much anticipated debut. Not only does it live up to the hype, it firmly establishes frontwoman Heather Baron-Gracie as the star the genre so desperately needs.

A record that will strike a chord with those who have struggled with small-town boredom and unrequited love, My Mind Makes Noises is littered with '80s-indebted, indie-pop bangers perfect for pre-gig parties or post-night out weep-fests. The hooks throughout are sharper than the Meg's teeth, and the likes of the Cure-minded 'There's A Honey' and the anthemic 'When Did I Lose It All' should hopefully unlock the door to mainstream success.

Final effort 'Karl (I Wonder What It's Like To Die)' is where they really impress. Eschewing their trademark synths and fuzzed-up guitar solos for an unplugged vibe, the haunting, harrowing number about family bereavement is a game-changer. It leaves little doubt that Heather and co. are on course, destined to make plenty of waves.

Out Now