“Smudge” by Welcome Strawberry is a captivating journey into the world of shoegaze music, where the boundaries between reality and dreams blur into a mesmerizing sonic landscape. Hailing from Oakland, CA, Welcome Strawberry presents us with their first single from the forthcoming EP, “Scared to Look.” The song is like a fragile flower blooming amidst a concrete jungle, offering a unique blend of influences that include Starflyer 59, Narrow Head, The Smashing Pumpkins, Lush, and Pale Saints.
As I listened to “Smudge,” I found myself transported to a hazy, dreamlike state. The track’s ethereal guitar melodies and distant, whispering vocals create an atmosphere of introspection and nostalgia. It’s as if the music invites you to lose yourself in its intricate layers, like gazing into a pool of water and seeing your own reflection ripple and distort.
One of the remarkable aspects of “Smudge” is its ability to evoke emotions without relying heavily on lyrics. The instrumentation takes center stage, with each guitar strum and drumbeat adding to the overall texture of the song. The hushed vocals, though sometimes obscured, serve as another instrument, adding to the song’s enigmatic charm.
The influence of bands like Starflyer 59 and The Smashing Pumpkins is evident in the song’s dynamic shifts and moments of sonic intensity. However, Welcome Strawberry manages to inject their unique personality into the mix. There’s a sense of vulnerability and intimacy that permeates the track, making it feel like a deeply personal expression.
In a world filled with polished and pristine music, “Smudge” is refreshingly raw and unapologetically imperfect. It’s a reminder that beauty can be found in the cracks and imperfections, much like the charm of a wildflower growing in an unexpected place.
Welcome Strawberry’s “Smudge” is a mesmerizing foray into the world of shoegaze. Its dreamy, otherworldly quality and subtle influences from shoegaze legends make it a must-listen for fans of the genre. This single hints at an exciting EP to come, and I, for one, am eagerly awaiting the bouquet of musical delights that Welcome Strawberry is sure to offer. Keep an eye on Welcome Strawberry; their music is a unique and captivating journey worth taking.
