Saltfalls is a Ukrainian band based in Berlin that artfully blends the genres of dreampop, dreamgaze, shoegaze, and post-punk. The project was launched in 2023 by childhood friends Yaryna Borynets and Max Barna, who sought to create a unique sound that reflects their artistic visions. Later that same year, Dmytro Vaskovets, who is known for his solo project Wheatness, joined the band, further enriching their musical palette.
The name “Saltfalls” is inspired by a captivating natural phenomenon observed in the mining quarry of Kalush, the hometown of Yaryna and Max. This occurrence takes place when potassium salt rises to the surface and cascades down the terraced hills, creating a stunning visual effect. The band draws deeply from their hometown, stating that many of their songs are dedicated to the city and the memories they forged there.
In their press release, Saltfalls delves into the inspiration behind their music, sharing intimate stories that inform their songwriting process. Each track introduces listeners to the landscapes of their youth, laden with emotions, nostalgia, and reflections on time spent in Kalush. Through their music, they invite audiences to explore not just their soundscape but the rich tapestry of experiences that shaped them as artists.
“Maple Town” is a journey that opens with dreamy synthesizers before evolving into a richly layered soundscape featuring live and synth bass, culminating in a shoegaze-inspired climax. The composition’s changing moods reflect the story told in the lyrics. [translation]
The song captures an emotional image of hometowns, exploring how memories of these places linger in our minds. The lyrics evoke the strict yet familiar and dear faces of Ukrainian cities, whose gray neighborhoods hold childhood secrets in the courtyards of towering residential buildings. At its heart, the song captures the essence of childhood memories: the heat of summer days and footprints left behind on soft asphalt, frozen in time.
‘Maple Town’ is a story about the place you all know. It’s a dot on the map where swings on the playground cradled your dreams. Where trees invited you into their shade on hot summer days. Where streets remember your first kiss.”
It has been a while since I shared a song sung in Ukrainian, and I find the experience refreshing. Although I can sometimes grasp a bit of the language due to its Slavic roots, having a translation is incredibly helpful for fully appreciating the lyrics. I’m grateful to the band for providing that in their press materials.
The atmosphere this song creates is truly captivating. The prominent vocals, paired with ethereal shoegaze guitars, weave together to form a spectacular listening experience that really drew me in. Among the numerous submissions we’ve received recently, this track distinctly stands out, showcasing a unique sound that is both enchanting and memorable.
I’m also excited to see our Slovakia neighbors—Slovakia shares a border with Ukraine—producing such beautiful, dreamy shoegaze music. It’s a genre I thoroughly enjoy, and I have no doubt that if you give this song a listen, you’ll find it just as appealing. The depth of emotion and craft displayed in this piece resonates deeply, making it a highlight of my recent musical explorations.
Written by Filip Zemcik
