Description

Pale Saints – In Ribbons – Cassette

In Ribbons is the second studio album by the British alternative rock band Pale Saints, released on March 23, 1992, through 4AD Records. Following their critically acclaimed debut album ‘The Comforts of Madness,’ In Ribbons continues to explore the band’s distinctive blend of shoegaze, dream pop, and alternative rock. The album was produced by Hugh Jones and marked the first album to feature Meriel Barham, formerly of Lush, on guitar and vocals, adding a new dynamic to the band’s sound.

In Ribbons showcases Pale Saints’ ability to combine ethereal soundscapes with a more refined melodic approach. The addition of Meriel Barham brought a new layer to their music, with her vocals complementing Ian Masters’ and enhancing the band’s harmonic richness. The album’s production is characterized by lush, reverb-drenched guitars, intricate arrangements, and introspective lyrics.

Key Tracks

‘Throwing Back the Apple’ – The opening track sets the tone with its lush arrangements, swirling guitars, and Masters’ haunting vocals.
‘Ordeal’ – A dynamic song with a driving rhythm and layered guitars, creating a dense and immersive sound.
‘Thread of Light’ – Features Barham’s delicate vocals and highlights the band’s ability to blend melody with atmospheric production.
‘Shell’ – Known for its dreamy quality and melodic hooks, this track exemplifies the band’s shoegaze influences.
‘Hunted’ – A standout track with a powerful bassline and an intense, almost hypnotic atmosphere.
‘A Thousand Stars Burst Open’ – Combines ethereal elements with a more grounded rock approach, showcasing the band’s versatility.
‘Neverending Night’ – A beautifully melancholic track that combines Barham’s and Masters’ vocals with a lush instrumental backdrop.

The album is characterized by its use of reverb-drenched guitars, ethereal vocals, and layered soundscapes typical of shoegaze and dream pop. Despite the dense production, the songs on In Ribbons are marked by strong melodic hooks and memorable choruses. The interplay between Ian Masters and Meriel Barham’s vocals adds a rich, harmonic texture to the music. Hugh Jones’ production emphasizes the band’s ability to create atmospheric and immersive soundscapes.

In Ribbons was well-received by critics and fans, praised for its lush production and the band’s ability to blend melody with atmospheric elements. The album is often regarded as a high point in Pale Saints’ discography and is celebrated for its intricate arrangements and emotional depth.

In Ribbons has maintained a cult following and is considered a significant release in the shoegaze and dream pop genres. The album’s influence can be heard in the works of many bands that followed in the shoegaze and alternative rock scenes.

For fans of shoegaze, dream pop, and alternative rock, In Ribbons offers a rich and rewarding listening experience that captures the essence of Pale Saints’ innovative and emotive sound.

Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic seal

4AD Records

UK Import

Track Listing
throwing back the apple
ordeal
thread of light
shell
there is no day
hunted
hair shoes
babymaker
liquid
neverending night
featherframe
a 1000 stars burst open