Melbournian outfit Pretty In Pink has built a reputation for cultivating an intimate, distinct corner within the indie pop landscape. Fronted by the former Heart Beach multi-instrumentalist Claire McCarthy, the project initially sparked into life from a surplus of bedroom-pop ideas that needed their own sanctuary.
Following the stripped-back charm of her 2021 self-titled debut and the richer textures of 2023's ‘Pillows’, McCarthy returns on 26 June with her highly anticipated third full-length album, ‘Delicates’—and we have an exclusive early listen for you today.
Steeped in a DIY ethos, ‘Delicates’ plays out like a beautifully curated drawer of audio snapshots. The record seamlessly stitches together minimal post-punk arrangements with the warm, sun-faded jangle of vintage 1980s guitar pop. There is a distinct, rhythmic nod to the classic Flying Nun roster, blended effortlessly with the driving, reverb-heavy minimalism reminiscent of underground icons like Black Tambourine. Yet, while the stylistic touchstones feel beautifully familiar, the emotional core is completely fresh.
Written, recorded, performed, and mixed entirely by McCarthy herself—with final polishing from mastering engineer Casey Hartnett—the album acts as a vulnerable journal capturing major life pivots. Across these brief, impactful tracks, McCarthy examines the intersections of grief, newly found parental perspectives, and the evolving nature of memory.
"This album separates the delicates insofar as it picks up the nicest, most precious pieces I've made since my son and daughter were born and washes them separately. Each one speaks to growing up, giving birth, gaining love and new perspectives, and saying goodbye to my parents in death and other ways."
To celebrate the release, a string of Australian dates are locked in. Fans can catch a listening party at Footscray Records in Melbourne on Saturday 11 July, followed by an official, full-band album launch at Nighthawks on Saturday 19 September with stellar local support from Sylvia and Terrible Muriel. Queenslanders can also check out the project at LUNCHFEST in Brisbane on Saturday 27 June.
Dive into the early stream of ‘Delicates’ today on all major streaming services to experience the record ahead of its official release. Don't forget to follow Pretty In Pink on Instagram to keep up with touring updates and secure your physical copy via their official Bandcamp page.
