British indie breakout Wet Leg—consisting of Rhian Teasdale and Hester Chambers, joined by full-time members Josh Mobaraki, Ellis Durand, and Henry Holmes—released their second studio album, moisturizer, on July 11 via Domino. The follow‑up to their award‑winning debut showcases a clear artistic evolution, expanding on their witty lyricism and catchy riffs while exploring deeper, more personal territory.
Recorded in autumn 2024 at Brighton’s Salvation Studios with producer Dan Carey—who helmed their first album—the 12‑track set reflects a band now fully integrated with their touring lineup . Teasdale has described moisturizer as built around love songs directed toward her non-binary partner, marking a pivot from their debut’s anti-romantic tone.
Critics have lauded this transformation. The Financial Times noted the album embraces “love and lust,” celebrating both playful charm and emotional depth in tracks like “CPR” and “Pond Song”. Pitchfork praised the more textured, expansive sound, especially on “liquidize” and “pond song,” calling the album a confident leap forward. The Guardian observed that while the duo now occupies a fuller sonic palette, they retain their signature deadpan quirks and catchy hooks.
Standout tracks across reviews include the opening salvo “CPR,” which juxtaposes frantic energy with emotional urgency, and the ferocious “Catch These Fists,” a club-ready rebuke to unwanted advances. Meanwhile, tender pieces like “Davina McCall,” “11:21,” and “U And Me At Home” showcase a newfound vulnerability and vocal range.
Numerous outlets highlight moisturizer as proof Wet Leg have avoided the dreaded sophomore slump. AP declared it “a terrific soundtrack for a long, hot summer,” while The Independent hailed it as confirmation they’re “more than a flash in the pan”. Mojo praised the expanded five-piece lineup, calling the album “a well-oiled machine”.
Early chart data suggests moisturizer is on track to debut at Number 1 on the UK Albums Chart—mirroring the explosive success of their self‑titled 2022 debut.
Overall, moisturizer signals a confident second chapter for Wet Leg: a smart blend of their trademark humor and riff‑driven indie energy, enriched by stronger emotional stakes and musical depth. As they gear up for summer festivals and further global growth, Wet Leg stand poised to cement their enduring place in the modern indie landscape.