The term “super group” gets thrown around from time to time in the music press whether its warranted or not. In the case of Minor Victories, it deserves a caveat as we’re not exactly talking about the music equivalent of Kevin Durant joining the Golden State Warriors. Having said that, this is an interesting group of musicians that decided to join forces and record an album (although never in the same studio at the same time). Minor Victories includes Stuart Braithwaite (Mogwai), Rachel Goswell (Slowdive), and Justin Lockey (Editors) along with his brother James.
The self titled debut album sounds like about what you would expect from a band made up with those members. Shoegaze elements mixed with moody atmospherics and dramatic musical crashes. Goswell’s voice is highlighted on “Breaking My Light” before the utterly beautiful “Folk Arp”. Mark Kozelek of Sun Kil Moon appears on the charming duet “Love at First Sight” which details the missed opportunities with Goswell over the years. At times Minor Victories can veer into Evanescence territory but otherwise this debut is what you would expect… a solid outing from the b-team.
8/10
The Light Appears 