Review: London Grammar – The Greatest Love
London Grammar has been a dominant force in the indie pop scene for over a decade, ever since their debut album If You Wait in 2013. Hannah Reid’s ethereal vocals continue to captivate fans, seamlessly weaving between slow-burning ballads and dance-infused tracks. Now, the trio is back with their highly anticipated fourth album, The Greatest Love, their first release since Reid became a mother, a theme subtly reflected in the album’s promotion.
The pre-release singles set the tone for what’s to come, starting with the lead single and opening track House. This song kicks off with a garage-like beat, gradually introducing Reid’s unmistakable vocals. It’s a bold, dance-forward statement that highlights the band’s house music influences. House has already become a fan favorite, as demonstrated by its powerful reception during their Glastonbury performance.
Fakest Bitch strips things back, with acoustic guitars and piano accompanying Reid’s voice, offering a more vulnerable and raw side of the band. The track is both lyrically and sonically striking, with a haunting beauty that positions it as one of the standout songs London Grammar has ever released.
You And I feels like an evolution of the sound explored on their previous album, Californian Soil. The open, emotionally direct lyrics help make this track especially potent. Reid’s vocals soar higher than ever, blending cinematic elements and swelling strings in its climactic moments, showing the band’s willingness to experiment.
LA balances the dance energy of House with the indie roots that first defined London Grammar, encapsulating their broad sonic palette. The second single, Kind Of Man, brings a jazzy groove to the album with smooth guitar riffs and infectious drumbeats. Meanwhile, Into Gold—at just under six minutes—showcases the group’s more electronic, expansive side, building into a swirling, hypnotic dance anthem.
The Greatest Love is a statement piece from a band that, after more than ten years of success, continues to evolve. The album is surprisingly raw in its lyricism and balances intimate moments with epic choruses, showcasing what makes them such a distinctive act. This release represents some of their best work to date, sure to resonate with longtime fans and newcomers alike.
