The keen and loyal reader will know about our crush for everything dreamy; from shoegaze to dream pop, we can’t resist poignancy, guitar drones and reverberated vocals. You will then understand our euphoria upon discovering stranger waves, dream pop outfit from NYC that’s steadily showcasing itself as a promising and worthy group on the scene, perhaps one of the freshest and most interesting offerings in the genre. Channelling their inner Drop Nineteens and Slowdive, the group delivers delicious musical gems, layering dreamy sonic matter against pop and indie sensibilities. The project’s latest effort, ‘Backwards’, is the perfect example of that. A gentle, pensive dream that transports you to an emotional utopia, where time stands still and stranger waves’ floating vocals compassionately caress you.
Growing up in Tenessee, the band got together during the pandemic, looking for an artistic outlet against uncertain times. Starting off with Parker and Emily, they were soon joined by Kyle and Sam, creating a well-oiled machine excelling at jangling guitars, tight drums, intense bass and scintillating keys. Recently, they relocated to the New York area, hoping to widen their audience. Safe to say, they are doing exactly that, and frankly, we expect them to go far: their sound is irresistible and their attitude extremely charming.
We played ‘Backwards’ in loop for quite a while, such musical goodness! The alchemy between Parker and Emily’s lead vocals works perfectly, adding textures and layers to a chorus already to die for. Everything is drowned in heavy reverb, and that’s how we like it. There’s positivity emerging with the song, blended with feeble nostalgia. We love it!
Recommended! Discover stranger waves on Spotify:
