Album Review: Glass Caves – Back To Earth

Glass Caves release the radiant new album Back To Earth via Scruff of the Neck Records

A decade on from their formation, Glass Caves deliver their most anthemic work to date with Back To Earth. Produced by Andy Gannon at Manchester’s House of Chella, the 12-track release shimmers with clarity and tight musicality, showcasing just how refined the band’s sonic identity has become.

Fronted by Matt Hallas (vocals, guitar) and Elliott Fletcher (drums, backing vocals), the album presents a sparkling indie pop sound that is both considered and restrained, while confidently embracing expansive, commercially polished production. Opening with the swirling synths, tight drums, bass, and radiant vocal melodies of In Style, the album immediately sets a bright, sun-drenched tone. Blending ’90s-influenced indie pop with a touch of psychedelia, the track is both accessible and musically elegant.

Otherside introduces the jangly guitar tones that have become a signature of the band, merging guitar-led indie with swells of synth-driven alt-pop. Yes You Can continues this trajectory before introducing a welcome grit, courtesy of its fuzzy, expansive chorus. As one of the album’s standout moments, the track successfully balances pop sensibilities with the band’s raw, alternative edge—capturing the energy of their live shows while showcasing their knack for infectious hooks.

Elsewhere on the record, Bad Weather exemplifies the band’s sharp commercial songwriting, while Millionaire features inventive, choppy production reminiscent of Glass Animals.

Closing tracks Making Waves and Pleased To Meet You fuse inventive musical ideas with memorable melodies, solidifying the band’s distinct sound.

With soaring choruses, euphoric synths, and sun-kissed guitars, Back To Earth is the sound of a band that has truly found its voice. Nearly every track feels like a potential single, a testament to their talent for writing infectious, melody-driven music. Lyrically, Back To Earth is rooted in themes of reflection and redemption. A spiritual undercurrent flows beneath the stadium-sized hooks—a search for meaning amid the highs and lows of a relentless journey. Despite the pop polish, each song carries a heartfelt, honest message, telling the story of their career—and indeed, their lives.

With Back To Earth, Glass Caves come full circle—returning to Scruff of the Neck, the label that believed in them from the beginning. “It’s been one hell of a ride,” says vocalist Matt Hallas. “This record is the sound of all that belief paying off.”

Catch them live on their May headline tour, with stops across the UK including London, Manchester, and Glasgow—and stream the new album below:

UK Headline Tour 2025
22 May – York, The Crescent
23 May – Bristol, Moor Beer Co
24 May – London, Moth Club
29 May – Manchester, Night & Day
30 May – Glasgow, SWG3 Poetry Club
31 May – Leeds, Headrow House