Liverpudlian four-piece Clinic may be one of the most slowly evolving bands in the history of music, but there’s something to be said for a group that constantly mines the same territory, only shaving off minor elements and adding other, barely discernible traits with each album. That said, the new Bubblegum is said to be something of a departure for the group, and “I’m Aware” indicate the reports may have a kernel of truth to them.
There’s definitely a hint of the string arrangements that Sean O’Hagan from the High Llamas used to donate to Stereolab back in the day here, which adds a melancholy feel to this gentle song. Despite their reputation as frantic garage rockers, it’s often the slower songs Clinic produces that are the most memorable (particularly “Distortions” from Internal Wrangler) and “I’m Aware” continues firmly in that tradition.
