For the uninitiated, nu-gaze is a modern subgenre of shoegaze, but with newer production styles and influences. It keeps the dreamy, washed-out textures of shoegaze but often feels cleaner, more digital, or more beat-driven.
Sweden’s Wolfschmidt is a great example of this modern subgenre, with more space and separation, and a vocal that is noticeably clearer.
The band started as a recording duo in 2021, but has evolved into an explosively intense 5-piece live act. They have a strong image with really distinct visuals online. Wolfschmidt’s character oozes from every publicity shot and every record cover.
‘whaler’ is their latest single in the lead up to the release of their debut album INSUFFICIENT FAILURE. The song explores the sacrifice of one’s own life for the benefit of future generations.
A pitch-bendy, drunk-sounding guitar is our first introduction to ‘whaler’ – it’s like stumbling across the deck of a ship at high seas.
Everything explodes into wailing guitars with a tidal wave of distortion. Elin’s voice has a delicate, ethereal tone, moving across the music like silk against sandpaper. I found the lyrics to be just out of my reach, despite them being more upfront than your average shoegaze track (oh yeah – this is nu-gaze, don’t forget!).
The wall of sound feels impenetrable at first – until you focus – then everything becomes clear. Like a seeing-eye painting, once you know how to listen, elements open up, dimensions expand, and the tune unfurls before you. There are calmer sections too – places to catch your breath before being dragged underwater once again.
The tortured guitars grind and fight with each other, with a swirling dissonance that feels immense, and the final section takes no prisoners before evaporating into a chasm of feedback.
‘whaler’ certainly travels through stormy waters, but rest assured it delivers a thrilling ride!
Written by Grubby
