It’s been stated that Australian band Bloom has the distinct ability to make personable moments onstage that resonate with audiences, crafting intense crowd pleasers with a distinct sound, and on their newest track Elevate from their album of the same name, it’s clear why they’re a master of that delicate thread between the artist and the crowd.
Elevate represents a bold chapter for the group, an emphasis on stylized and big performance that is somehow simultaneously controlled, which is no easy feat. It’s a sound that’s certainly nostalgic for a variety of reasons, for one it’s cinematic, making use of a fantastic gospel aesthetic with big brass that feels reminiscent of a post 2000’s No Doubt era, coupled with the fact that it sounds like something that’d fit in perfectly on a romantic comedy soundtrack (and I mean that in a good way.)
The track begins in its decidedly poppy sound, kicking in with lead vocals and relatable lyrics “I’ve been hurt, I’ve been pushed back down. I’ve knocked on doors and I’ve been knocked around.” Naturally, it’s a painful subject, and whereas a lot of other songs can feel shallow with simplistic lyrics of pain, the understated yet powerful approach coupled with its instantly memorable sound goes a long way, especially when the rhythm starts to kick it up a notch. I was immediately won over by the bombastic and infectious flourishes and the amazing drums and snare. “I’m moving up and I’m moving on.
Keeping it together no matter the weather.” she says at one point and you can feel the growing empowerment that matches the true sense of escalation. The song which clocks a little under 3 minutes maintains a brisk and energetic pace even for lower moments that are few and far between, that feel like personal insecurities that we all go through when picking ourselves up. Naturally it’s overcome and never in a pandering way. The song makes you feel like you’re floating on air, and its revisitation value is off the charts. It’s a small piece of a large album that fits seamlessly. Adding those gospel flourishes as mentioned earlier adds this jubilation that feels like a heavenly celebration, with the chorus exclaiming “I’m elevating, I’m levitating.”
I want to exist in this sonic world longer, and I’m sure you will as well. If I have any criticism, it definitely falls under some lyrical content. It can be a bit on the repetitive side, which isn’t exactly a dealbreaker. When it’s coupled with the sonic power of the song, it feels less like a lazy rehash and instead like a statement. There’s something special about Elevate that isn’t often found in major releases, something tangible and a love letter to self-love, which plenty of people can relate to. It makes sense that Bloom sells out plenty of concerts in Australia and New Zealand. Give the single and its corresponding album a chance and I can guarantee you’ll easily be elevated as well, and as Bloom says “love keeps lifting oneself high.”
Jodi Marxbury