The past few years have seen monumental advancements in the fight for equality in the gay rights movement. Gay marriage has now been legalised across multiple Western states and on the face of it there has been a general improvement. However, for Mike Hadreas, aka Perfume Genius, this is a fight that is only beginning, both internally and externally, as he reflects on the delightfully experimental No Shape.

The record is a piece of triumphant solace and that is never more true than on the record’s first single ‘Slip Away’. It’s jagged rhythmic instrumentation is carried by the superb vibrato of the Hadreas vocal – the song speaks of a forbidden love between himself and partner (and composer) Alan Wyffels – and though there are hints of vulnerability throughout the delivery, the song is an elative joy that sees in the record wonderfully.

Hadreas has always had a knack for penning statements of triumph and while the record doesn’t have the power of previous single ‘Queen’, it does present statements in a different manner. ‘Just Like Love’ sees Hadreas writing to a young child who is innocent in his homosexuality, yet to be tainted by the abuse that so many face, as he simply states “When it happens again / Baby hold on and stare them down”.

READ MORE: Feist // ‘Pleasure‘

The most interesting aspect of the record is the level of experimentation seen on No Shape. ‘Choir’ sees Perfume Genius at his most frantic, the strings almost fighting against the calmness seen on previous track ‘Every Night’ to ignite the record. The ghostly calls and the dark discussion of an evil presence create a disarming presence and the record is better for it. Elsewhere, ‘Wreath’s’ wall of sound is an unmitigated success as surging synths and hints of Animal Collective-esque psychedelia provide a fun moment for the record.

However, the record does falter through its imagination; opening track ‘Otherside’ is unnecessarily under-produced creating an empty feeling for the lovely piano and explosive pop sound. While the Vampire Weekend-meets-Yeasayer ‘Go Ahead’ just misses its target with its glitched electronics and cold electronics.

READ MORE: Mac De Marco // ‘This Old Dog‘

No Shape is a delightful record, built on superb lyricism and ably assisted by some excellent instrumentation. The theme for the record is an imperfect triumph and that feels apt after multiple listens; Hadreas misses his mark at times, but succeeds in exciting listeners for what is to come. (7/10) (John Tindale)

But what did you guys think? Listen here, tweet us here and let us know!