Souls In Motion is the debut full-length album from Manchester-based five-piece Pastel, released on January 17, 2025. The band’s musical revolution blends inspiration from Britpop icons like The Stone Roses and The Verve with modern shoegaze and indie rock elements. Released via Spirit Of Spike Island, the album captures a nostalgic yet dynamic aura through its rich guitar layers and clear melodic core. Scoring an impressive 8.5/10, it was met with widespread critical acclaim.
🎸 Album Structure & Standout Tracks
- “Heroes Blood” – A powerful opener. Merges bold guitar work and energetic drums, fusing Britpop attitude with modern vitality.
- “Your Day” – One of Pastel’s signature songs. With its uplifting melody, it creates an indie-hymn effect beloved by fans.
- “Dancing On A Pin” – Carries an Oasis-style swagger; received praise from Liam Gallagher himself and was played on the Knebworth stages.
- “Isaiah” – Surprisingly emotional and shoegaze-heavy. Its bridge section especially leaves a lasting impression.
- “Running On Empty” – A punk-charged track. Its Buzzcocks/Clash-style rhythm injects motion and urgency into the listener.
- “Leave A Light On (A Velvet Storm)” – A softening moment. Evokes The Verve’s A Northern Soul era with Rolling Stones-like emotional depth.
- “Sunnyside” – A serene epic, marked by textured guitar work. Offers a breath of fresh air for the listener.
- “Escape” – A cathartic closer. Ends the album with rock-driven energy and memorable lyrics.
🔊 Production & Artistic Direction
Released under Spirit Of Spike Island, the album was produced by J. Fender (frontman of Afflecks Palace) and mixed by James Kenosha. According to critics, the team succeeded in preserving the live feel of the band while delivering clarity and depth through the layers.
👍 Critical & Listener Reception
The album has been warmly received by both critics and indie rock fans:
- All Music Magazine: Called it “a key entry in the shoegaze revival, blending '90s Manchester sound with a modern touch.” (Rating: 8.5/10)
- Northern Exposure: Praised it for “reinterpreting the past while keeping the modern Britpop vibe alive. Unforgettable.”
- At The Barrier: Noted Pastel’s “confident emergence following their debut EP, showcasing a young band taking the stage with bold assurance.”
🎤 Live Performances & Future Plans
In 2024, Pastel performed in front of Liam Gallagher at Knebworth, earning major support. Their 2025 UK tour spanned cities from Newcastle to London, stirring excitement. With the album’s momentum, they’re now appearing at festivals and continuing in-studio performances.
🌟 Conclusion: Manchester’s New Hope
Souls In Motion is a debut album that bridges classic shoegaze and Britpop with contemporary flair, marked by strong melodies and a broad sonic palette. The fact that it’s being recognized as neither a nostalgia act nor overly futuristic shows Pastel’s real potential. Rooted in Manchester but echoing globally, this album will grip you within 10 seconds—and reveal something new with every listen.
