I recently had the opportunity to visit Poland, and during my time there, I discovered a fascinating world of indie music that I felt eager to explore further. In my quest for knowledge, I turned to Instagram, seeking recommendations to curate a vibrant playlist of Polish artists. Although I’ve occasionally shared music from Polish musicians on our blog, this particular instance stood out. A young, dynamic five-piece band from Katowice, named Undergone, reached out with their striking new single, Falling Apart.
According to the press materials they provided, Undergone is known for their innovative blending of genres, creating a soundscape that is a captivating mix of noise rock, shoegaze, ambient, alt-rock, and even metal. Their latest track, however, leans more into the realms of shoegaze and noise rock, showcasing a distinct shift in their musical evolution. The band’s lineup is comprised of talented musicians: Wiktoria Borecka captivates with her vocals, while Kamil Orszulik and Dawid Bestry join forces on guitar. Mikołaj Żarski provides the rhythmic pulse on drums, and Alicja Więcław anchors the sound with her bass contributions. I had previously shared music from Dawid Bestry and was impressed with his artistry, which only heightened my anticipation for this new project. It’s exciting that they recently held their debut show, marking a significant start to their musical journey. I have always admired the fervor and creativity of young musicians.
The press release paints a vivid picture of Falling Apart, describing it as a noise-shoegaze odyssey that guides listeners through a surreal dreamscape. It begins as a gentle drift but gradually morphs into a haunting nightmare, distorting reality and embedding a deeply unsettling message that resonates long after the last note fades. The song serves as a sonic depiction of emotional disintegration—immersive and unsettling, it is designed to leave a haunting echo in the listener’s psyche.
The composition itself is built on layers of expansive soundscapes and rich reverbs, enveloping the listener in an ethereal, dreamlike aura. Yet, beneath this delicate exterior lies an undercurrent of raw energy—noise-infused elements and complex harmonies are interwoven with heavy riffs, creating a palpable tension that enhances the emotional depth of the track. As the music transitions from soft melancholy to an overwhelming intensity, it reveals a dynamic interplay of feelings that grips the heart.
Notably, the band has opted to maintain complete control over their artistic process—recording, mixing, mastering, and designing visual aesthetics—allowing them to stay true to their vision. This independence is commendable, as it allows their authentic sound to shine through.
Listening to Falling Apart and reflecting on the band’s approach reminded me of another band from our label, Eversame. The similarities in vibe and artistic intent are striking, hinting at a shared approach to music that is both innovative and deeply emotional. Eastern Europe is beginning to emerge as a hub for some of the most compelling shoegaze music today, and I am thrilled to be part of this journey, even in a small way. Keep an eye on Undergone; I believe they are poised to make significant waves in the music scene ahead.
Written by Filip Zemcik
