Charming, twee, sweet, and gritty, Nate Goldsmith was inspired to write his band’s thoroughly addictive new single by his “big, mean cat Missy,” who has “one green eye and one blue eye”. The new tune from New York quartet the wild irises is an instantly enjoyable fuzzed-out slice of hazy, gazey, pop-rock.
Their sound lies somewhere between Teenage Fanclub and My Bloody Valentine. Breezy acoustics are strummed, lyrics are catchy, and the overall sound feels like a delightfully wobbly mirage. The rhythm section is tight and dependable throughout, allowing the guitars ample space and opportunity to flourish.
Five years into their career, this band has clearly carved out a distinctive, identifiable sonic niche. Certainly considered, but at the same time undeniably abrasive, they seem to strike just the right balance between light and shade. The whimsical lyrics add to this dichotomy by being almost throwaway in their perceived frivolity.
Based on the sound of Missy alone, we can imagine the wild irises fitting nicely on a bill alongside scene stalwarts The Pains Of Being Pure At Heart or relatively recent discoveries The Foxgloves, such is the nature and quality of the songwriting here.
We’ll look forward to hearing more. Take a listen to “The Wild Irises” below.
Written by Kinda Grizzly
