Dallas-based outfit 9-Volt Velvet release their single “Hey Candy”, which is included in the debut album “Nude Beaches” and a strange and beautiful world of dreamy atmospheres and ethereal melodies rises up. From the opening chords, “Hey Candy” casts a spell, inviting listeners into a lush sonic universe where shimmering guitars intertwine with the pulsating rhythm, creating a hypnotic groove. The band’s signature blend of indie rock and shoegaze elements is on full display, as layers of sound cascade like waves, enveloping the listener in a warm sonic embrace. At the heart of the track lies its irresistible melody, a wistful yet infectious refrain that sticks to your mind for long. The ghosty vocals of Mark Cross soar effortlessly over the swirling instrumentation, infusing the song with a sense of melancholy and nostalgia. His delivery is emotive and evocative, conveying an ocean of emotions. Instrumentally, the band demonstrates a remarkable sense of finesse, allowing each element to breathe and evolve. The interplay between guitars, bass, keyboards and drums is dynamic and fluid, with each instrument serving to enhance the overall atmosphere of the song. Yet, do not expect dramatic twists and turns in the music corpus of the song. “Hey Candy” boasts a polished but organic sound, the mix is immersive, with each instrument occupying its own space in the sonic spectrum while contributing to the song’s richness Overall, this single is a stellar offering from 9-Volt Velvet, which proves the band’s talent and artistic vision. Songs like this makes us anticipate eagerly the official release of 9-Volt Velvet’s debut album!
♦ 8/10
Dimitris Zacharopoulos
