music
May 7, 2026
Aldous Harding: Train on the Island review
(4AD)Lyrics about naked owls and eating rocks might be irksome to some – but there’s no denying that the alt-rocker’s fifth album is beguiling, tightly written and richly melodic
TL;DR
- Aldous Harding's fifth album, Train on the Island, continues her unique alt-rock style, featuring enigmatic lyrics and a divisive persona.
- The album is praised for its tightly written, compact, and punchy songs, with a melodic quality that appeals even to those not deciphering the lyrics.
- Produced by John Parish and featuring Huw Evans, the album explores warm, softly psychedelic territory with elements of sparse folk and electronics.
- Harding's skill as a songwriter is highlighted, with songs that are structurally sound and avoid indulgence, even the longer tracks.
- The album's melodies are described as lovely and capable of winning over even the most skeptical listeners.
- Despite the eccentricity, the core of the album offers disarmingly straightforward pleasures: a melodically gifted singer-songwriter and subtle, never bland music.