New Music Alert: Shoegaze is Alive and Well

I heard these ten songs recently and think the bands might be worth exploring. As usual for the New Music Alerts, some are new bands, some older bands with new music, and most are new to me. I’m still drawn to the shoegaze syndrome, so about half of the songs have elements of that genre. Almost all are fronted by female singers.

– “All I Wanna Do” by Blush: The young Singaporeans have been around the music scene a while, but Supercrush is their debut album as Blush. Their fuzzy dream pop is infectious.

– “Spiralling Out” by Softcult: The Canadian duo of twin sisters is out with a new EP this month, Heaven. Their grunge is lush.

– “Eye on the Bat” by Palehound: The NYC band, fronted by singer/songwriter Elle Kempner, released their 4th album last year, Eye of the Bat. They can rock out (“The Crush”) or as in the title song, float in a folky Big Thief-like indie rock.

– “Inside Out” by Cusp: The Chicago band released their debut LP last year, You Can Do It All. It’s an unconventional sound teetering between heavy guitar and uplifting vocals.

– “Brass Bell” by Screaming Females: These New Jersey classic rockers have just released their 8th album, Desire Pathway, after playing together for 18 years. Don’t let the synth intro of “Brass Bell” fool you. Their characteristic big guitar riffs and solos kick in shortly.

– “I Thought You’d Change” by Hotline TNT: Cartwheel is the second album from Will Anderson’s band. It’s 90s alternative rock. Think Sugar.

– “Paradise” by Wishy: Paradise is the debut EP from Wishy. The title song shows off the Indiana band’s acoustic pop and nice harmonies.

– “Literary Mind” by Sprints: Sprints are an Irish garage band with some punk energy. Their debut album, Letters to Self, was put out earlier this year. Singer Karla Chubb soars above the pounding drums, rumbling bass, and power chords.

– “Untidy Creature” by Sleater-Kinney: These Olympia, WA rockers need no introduction as they celebrate 30 years together this year with new LP, Little Rope. This is the 4th record Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker have completed since drummer Janet Weiss left the band in 2019. “Untidy Creature” is a powerful reaction to the overturning of Roe v. Wade.

– “Wall of Eyes” by The Smile: The second album from Thom Yorke and Johnny Greenwood’s side project continues in the abstract musical realm of 2022’s A Light for Attracting Attention. The songs ripple through an eerie, haunting atmosphere. Hints of Radiohead remain while they continue to establish their own identity.