The second in a trilogy of albums, And In the Darkness, Hearts Aglow follows up the excellent Titanic Rising. Hearts Aglow has the feel of a singer-songwriter album from the 70s. “It’s Not Just Me, It’s Everybody” embodies this 70s esthetic, a touch of soulfulness that soothes as it drifts along. Natalie Laura Mering’s voice is strikingly beautiful, it is well showcased on the minimalist “God Turn Me Into A Flower”. “Hearts Aglow” is highlighted with a Wurlitzer as the soundscape swoops.
“Children Of The Empire” has a brighter sound, with snappy finger snapping in the chorus, it’s a bit more attention grabbing than some of other tracks. A couple instrumentals appear on the second half including the watery sounds of “In Holy Flux”. Working with a few different arrangers/producers including Jonathan Rado, all of …Hearts Aglow is quite lovely but often does not really grab the listeners attention as it moves along. Under the beauty there is often not much there… there.
7/10
The Light Appears 