After a six-year break from the music scene, the London-based trio Our Girl has made a powerful return with their second album, The Good Kind, launched on November 8, 2024, under Bella Union. Led by Soph Nathan, also a member of The Big Moon, the band brings a collection that’s both introspective and wide-reaching, exploring the complexities of sexuality, relationships, community, and health. The album resonates with an emotional depth that marries indie-rock grit with a melodic sensitivity, weaving narratives that feel both personal and universally relatable.
The Good Kind was crafted in the legendary Rockfield Studios, with John Parish, celebrated for his work with artists like PJ Harvey and Aldous Harding, steering production alongside contributions from Fern Ford and Nathan herself. Their collaboration has yielded a sound that contrasts lush, heavy guitar layers with stripped-back, intimate vocal moments, capturing Our Girl’s versatility and expressive range.
The album’s eleven tracks offer a rich journey through varied emotional landscapes. Its title track, “The Good Kind,” is bolstered by a stirring string arrangement and the rhythmic drive of Warpaint's Stella Mozgawa. Standout tracks like “Something About Me Being A Woman” confront themes of personal frustration, while “Relief” depicts the process of finding strength and clarity after hardship, embodying the band’s commitment to genuine storytelling.
The album has garnered praise for its nuanced approach and emotive depth. NME describes it as “an indie-rock unicorn that rewards close listening,” emphasizing its inviting yet layered melodies. While some critics note that not every track stands out, publications like Far Out Magazine appreciate the album’s cohesiveness and sonic richness, making it a worthy addition to contemporary indie-rock.
The Good Kind is available across streaming platforms, including Bandcamp, where fans can choose between digital and physical versions. This release is a pivotal moment for Our Girl, symbolizing their evolution over the years. As they step back into the spotlight, The Good Kind marks not only their return but a redefined artistic identity, demonstrating resilience and growth through music that is as earnest as it is captivating.
