A beautiful combination of indie tones with a dusting of Americana magic, the new tune “Coast” from St. Louis four-piece Surtsey is an arresting piece of work.
Beginning with a combination of guitar sounds that reminds us of Death Cab For Cutie at their Photo Album/Transatlanticism/Plans-peak (and the joy that those records brought – and continue to – bring us), “Coast” is immediately emotive – at least for us – before a word has been uttered.
The addition of some absolutely sumptuous slide guitar (which may or not be provided by a lap steel – we can’t be sure) adds instant Americana vibes to the indie sounds. In the style of acts like The Weepies, M. Ward and Gillian Welsh, the indie/Americana fusion on “Coast” is classic-sounding and perfectly realised.
Lyrically, the song catches you off guard when the vocals come in, with a nod to the opening melody and lyrics of The Temptations’ classic “My Girl”. Very quickly it leaves any trace of that style of songwriting behind and moves distinctly into the sub-genres we’ve already identified. With a graceful, gratifying sound that would fit nicely alongside Jimmy Eat World, Whiskeytown, and Wilco, this Missouri band are certainly in good company.
Take a listen to “Coast” and follow Surtsey on their socials below.
Written by Kinda Grizzly
