Cardboard boxes have become my unwelcome companions this week, the remnants of my life in neat, labelled stacks. Every box, every forgotten belonging unearthed, is a bittersweet reminder of the five years I’m leaving behind. But amidst the chaos, I’ve stumbled upon an unexpected soundtrack for this transition: SWiiMS, a Canadian dream-pop trio whose debut LP, Into The Blue Night, has become the soundtrack for my move.
From contemplative moments amidst the packing frenzy to the fortitude needed to navigate a suspiciously narrow staircase carrying overflowing boxes, SWiiMS’ music has been a constant companion. My initial encounter with the band was through “Fade Days”, and I was instantly captivated by their brand of dreamy, distortion-filled soundscapes. Fronted by the captivating vocals of Mai Diaz Langou and backed by the sonic wizardry of Colin Thompson and Cian O’Ruanaidh, SWiiMS weave a sound that leans heavily on shoegaze but also incorporates elements of New Wave and 90’s British indie.
Their latest single, “Given To Me”, is a celestial odyssey that delves into the heart of the shoegaze sound while offering a unique twist. The song explores the act of surrendering to the allure of new beginnings, a sentiment echoed in both the lyrics and the ethereal melodies.
From the opening notes, you’re swept away in a swirl of sound. Layers of distorted guitars create a beautiful cacophony, reminiscent of Slowdive at their dreamiest. Yet, beneath the sonic haze lies a surprisingly catchy melody, effortlessly carried by Langou’s vocals. Her voice floats weightlessly, adding a touch of melancholy that perfectly complements the song’s theme of surrendering to new love.
The accompanying video, a collaboration with animator Agustina Quintero, further elevates the song’s otherworldly ambience. We see the band members transformed into cartoon astronauts, traversing desolate planets and bringing them to life with their music. The animation, though simple, is captivating, perfectly capturing the song’s essence while adding a delightful layer of whimsy and charm.
What sets SWiiMS apart is their ability to infuse their music with genuine emotion and sincerity. “Given To Me” offers an intoxicating blend of hopefulness and vulnerability. Lush melodies, evocative lyrics, and mesmerizing visuals converge to create a track that’s impossible not to fall in love with. It transcends traditional indie boundaries, offering a fresh perspective on shoegaze while staying true to its roots.
While my life in boxes may surround me, SWiiMS’ music has transported me to a different world altogether. With “Given To Me”, they’ve delivered a set of songs that lingers long after the last note fades, leaving me eager to dive right back into the blue night to listen to “Into The Blue Night”.
TRACKS:
