Psychedelic Shoegaze
Psychedelic shoegaze is a genre of music that has been gaining popularity in recent years. It's a genre that combines the ethereal sounds of shoegaze with the trippiness of psychedelic rock, resulting in an experience that is both hypnotic and otherworldly.
Origin
The genre originated in the UK in the late '80s and early '90s, with bands like My Bloody Valentine and Slowdive at the forefront. These bands were characterized by their heavy use of distortion, reverb, and delay, which created a wall of sound that transported listeners to another dimension.
The Influence
Psychedelic shoegaze was heavily influenced by psychedelic rock from the '60s and '70s. Bands like Pink Floyd and The Beatles were instrumental in shaping the sound of the genre, with their use of experimental effects and trippy soundscapes.
Later on, the genre would incorporate elements of electronic music, with bands like Radiohead and Massive Attack experimenting with drum machines, synthesizers, and samples.
The Sound
At its core, psychedelic shoegaze is characterized by its dreamy, hypnotic soundscapes. The walls of reverb and delay create a sense of space that envelopes the listener, while the distorted guitars and ethereal vocals carry them along on a journey through the depths of sound.
The lyrics are often cryptic and abstract, adding to the overall sense of mystery and intrigue. The melodies are haunting and beautiful, with an underlying sense of melancholy that runs throughout the genre.
Famous Bands in the Genre
Over the years, many bands have contributed to the psychedelic shoegaze sound. Here are some of the most famous ones:
- My Bloody Valentine: This Irish band is often credited with inventing the genre. Their classic album "Loveless" is a masterpiece of layered, distorted guitars and dreamy vocals.
- Slowdive: Another British band, Slowdive is known for their ethereal soundscapes and dreamlike melodies. Their album "Souvlaki" is a must-listen for anyone interested in the genre.
- Lush: This all-female band from London was known for their catchy melodies and beautiful harmonies. Their album "Spooky" is a masterpiece of psychedelic shoegaze.
- Ride: Ride is often cited as one of the founding bands of the genre. Their classic album "Nowhere" is a perfect example of the genre's sound, with its swirling guitars and hypnotic melodies.
- Cocteau Twins: Although they are often classified as dream pop, Cocteau Twins' unique sound is heavily influenced by shoegaze and psychedelic rock. Their album "Heaven or Las Vegas" is a good introduction to their sound.
Modern Bands
Although the genre originated in the '80s and '90s, there are still many modern bands that are carrying the psychedelic shoegaze torch. Here are some of the most notable ones:
- Tame Impala: This Australian band has gained a huge following in recent years with their trippy, psychedelic sound. Their albums "Lonerism" and "Currents" are both excellent examples of the genre.
- Beach House: Although they are often classified as dream pop, Beach House's sound is heavily influenced by shoegaze and psychedelic rock. Their albums "Bloom" and "7" both contain elements of the genre.
- DIIV: This Brooklyn-based band is known for their hazy, dreamy soundscapes. Their album "Is The Is Are" is a great introduction to their music.
- Alvvays: This Canadian band combines the jangly guitars of indie pop with the dreaminess of shoegaze. Their self-titled album is a fun, catchy listen.
- Deerhunter: Although they've experimented with many different styles over the years, Deerhunter's sound is heavily influenced by psychedelic shoegaze. Their album "Halcyon Digest" is a classic of the genre.
Conclusion
Psychedelic shoegaze is a genre of music that has had a profound impact on many musicians and listeners over the years. Its dreamy, hypnotic soundscapes create a sense of otherworldliness that is both mysterious and beautiful.
Whether you're a fan of the classics like My Bloody Valentine and Slowdive, or you're more interested in modern bands like Tame Impala and Beach House, there's no denying the power of psychedelic shoegaze. So put on your headphones, close your eyes, and let the music take you on a journey through the depths of sound.