stranger waves – Backwards (2022)
Nodding to the synth-pop meets indie-rock sounds of the 80s and 90s, stranger waves is a charismatic quartet based in the USA. Formed during the Covid-19 pandemic, stranger waves was initially a duo writing songs from the attic of their house. Shortly after being formed, Parker (vocals and guitar) and Emily (vocals and bass) were joined by Kyle (drums) who they met via a mutual friend. Rounding off the group is Sam (keys) bringing a wistful ethereal ambience to their music. The latest addition to their discography is the single ‘Backwards’.
Experimental and eclectic, stranger waves slather synth-pop sounds of the 80s with a contemporary dream-pop edginess. In ‘Backwards’, we see (or rather hear) the dreamy sounds of yesteryear, but also a tinge of indie-rock within the kaleidoscopic soundscape. Smooth, soothing and laidback, stranger waves tosses you into a swirl of sound with ‘Backwards’. Twirling about with a delicate fuzziness engulfing you, the band slithers into your brain, sends chills down your spine and leaves you gasping for breath – in a good way.
While the band has a distinctive sound, I find a tinge of reminiscence to The Cranberries and their song ‘Dreams’ in ‘Backwards’. I’m unsure if this is intentional, but a fairy lightness is heard in the honeyed vocals with a bold rock flair. I’m not the biggest fan of comparisons and stranger waves stand out among the best of them, but there is a slight leaning toward the iconic group in ‘Backwards’ (or at least to my ears). Sincere, sentimental and soul-stirring, stranger waves intoxicate listeners with their scintillating sound.
For more from stranger waves check out their Instagram and Spotify.
