Shadowcast
Self-Released, 2019
8/10
A Seattle outfit fronted by identical twin sisters Cat Biell and Carrie Biell, both women sing and play guitar while Jude Miqueli handles drums and Darcy Zoller contributes synth and cello on this sophomore album that’s never short on dreamy textures and vocal harmonies.
The title track starts the listen with a mysterious setting of elegance and exploratory sounds, as it builds into a chilling rocker, and “Bold” follows with breathy vocals in a haunting atmosphere that’s both charming and eerie.
Further along, “Characters” offers an ethereal, calm display of subdued beauty, while “Stop When It Hurts” recruits psyche-rock sensibilities into the loud alt-rock landscape.
Near the end, “The Cave” unfolds with a hypnotic haze of gentle sounds, and “Long Road” complements the affair with an artistic slant on sparseness and ambience. “Embers” ends the listen soft and jangly, with hints of pop influence amid the gritty, yet refined delivery.
Although it’s primarily a slow burning affair, Shadowcast moves with plenty of calculated tension, as nods to ‘80s shoegaze and post-punk align with their unique take on today’s indie-rock.
Travels well with: Buck Meek- Buck Meek; Mazzy Star- Among My Swan