Talking to Shadows continues to amaze their listeners with their second EP, aptly titled Lost. Recently released on Bandcamp and streaming everywhere on July 21st, 2023, Lost absolutely solidifies the band’s reputation as riffy shoegazers.
Cat Van Glide’s ethereal vocals take off over the scenes made by Gregoire Palmer’s perplexing guitar work, whereas Ron Weldon’s driving basslines and Alex Hughes’ energetic drumming give a strong establishment for the band’s sonic investigation. Together, they make a divider of sound that encompasses gatherings of people, submerging them in a cathartic, reflective, and melodic experience.
Opening with “Soma,” the album immediately envelops listeners in a captivating soundscape, as Cat Van Glide’s ethereal vocals intertwine with Gregoire Palmer’s masterful guitar work. The album’s progression leads to the soulful and powerful “Exit Wound,” a seamless blend of shoegaze and dreampop that resonates with perfection.
“Give Me Some of You” injects an energetic burst reminiscent of 1990s alternative rock, showcasing the band’s versatility. The quartet’s chemistry shines through as Ron Weldon’s exceptional bass lines meld with Alex Hughes’ impactful drumming. As the album reaches its climax, the title track “Lost” emerges as a true masterpiece. Van Glide’s vocals soar with power, while the song weaves between haunting verses and ballad-like choruses.
One of my favorite elements of the whole project is the way the mix of each song levels up both the vocals and instruments. The average listener may not understand why the band created the project this way, but no matter what category you fit into as a consumer of music, I can promise you that the overall mix and sound of the project will make you want to listen to it over and over as it is a beautiful majestic piece of music. Everything blends so smoothly together as the instruments don’t overtake the vocals, the vocals lay perfectly atop everything, and the instruments make you want to get up and jam hardcore… What more could you ask for as a fan of Talking to Shadows?
Each track on “Lost” contributes to a seamless flow, highlighting the band’s ability to balance dreamy soundscapes with intense moments. Gregoire Palmer’s wall of sound guitar technique remains a highlight, while Cat Van Glide’s vocal range takes listeners on an emotional journey from ethereal to commanding. With “Lost,” this 4-piece shoegaze band from Baltimore cements their place as a force to be reckoned with in the genre. An EP that begins strong, evolves gracefully, and concludes on a mesmerizing high note.
Lost was released on July 21st across all platforms (Spotify, Apple Music) and Talking to Shadows have since been showcasing their newest tracks around Baltimore. Take 20 minutes and 25 seconds out of your day to listen to beautiful drum pounding, electrifying guitar riffs, and soaring vocals, all squeezed into a four track masterpiece. Make sure to follow along the band’s musical journey as they plan on keeping their fans attuned with new music!