In the world of late 00/early 10’s indie music, few bands evoke the kind of personal and fervent admiration that Voxtrot have. A romance that started with a series of brilliant EPs has now culminated in a triumphant return, marked by the release of the singles “Another Fire” and “New World Romance.” For fans like myself, who have followed the Austin upstarts from the very start, this is like receiving a letter from a distant relative you love but haven’t quite kept up with. With just one full-length album under their belt, Voxtrot is a band deserving of more recognition, and it seems, perhaps, this time the world is poised to wake up to their musical brilliance.
Back at SXSW 2013 I witnessed an intimate solo show featuring Ramesh Srivastava, the band’s charismatic frontman, a performance that remains etched in my memory. The unassuming venue and the ridiculously early hour of the day somehow heightened the experience, making it a testament to Srivastava‘s natural charm as a performer. He (literally) spoke to everyone in the audience taking requests and telling unforgettable anecdotes. This personal connection, forged through music and live performances, adds an extra layer of excitement to this resurgence.
The reunion of the five original members for a tour last year was a cause for celebration. The mere thought of the band being back together brought a huge smile to my face, and it is no exaggeration to say that the new singles, “Another Fire” and “New World Romance,” were met with joyous screams and heightened anticipation.
“Another Fire,” with its signature jangling guitars and soaring melodies, captures the essence of personal and universal regeneration. It’s a sonic journey that feels both familiar and refreshingly new, akin to the thrill of an old friend returning with tales of adventure. The accompanying music video, directed by Srivastava himself, provides an intimate peek into the band’s natural habitat in Lockhart, Texas, creating an artful bridge between past and present.
As Voxtrot embarks on this new chapter, “New World Romance” emerges as a graceful, restrained indie chug, enriched with strings and Fender Rhodes. Srivastava’s reflections on the track, inspired by the documentary “B-Movie: Lust & Sound In West-Berlin 1979-1989,” speak to the band’s evolution, not just musically but also thematically. It’s a poignant exploration of embracing new adventures while honouring the past—a sentiment that resonates with fans who’ve embarked on their journey with Voxtrot.
With these new singles, the band have sparked a simultaneous wave of nostalgia and anticipation. It is time for the world to rediscover and/or embrace this lot.
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