With their new single, “Never Knew”, Philadelphia indie/art pop/rock duo Tulipomania return with a haunting, cinematic offering that continues to blur the lines between post-punk melancholy, darkwave atmospherics/aesthetics and surrealistic art-pop. Lifted from their sixth album, “Absolution”- a record born from an unexpected collaboration with author Jeff VanderMeer – this track is a sonic immersion into introspection, yet, at the same time, it disquiets beauty. “Never Knew” carries Tulipomania’s unmistakable, unique signature: slow-burning tension, brooding, moody, almost insane vocals from Tom Murray and Cheryl Gelover and a layered production that rewards persistent, deep listening. Anchored by a pulse-like bass line and angular guitar textures, the track unfolds gradually, wrapping the listener in a cocoon of shadowy elegance. The duo’s attention to sonic detail – textures inspired by the edges of kraut rock and the dim corners of early gothic rock —is compelling. There’s something deeply literary in Tulipomania’s work, making the collaboration with VanderMeer feel more like a natural evolution than a strange artistic detour. “Never Knew” is not a single that shouts—it whispers, with conviction, into your mind and annoys. For those willing to slow down and dwell in the shadows, Tulipomania continues to offer profoundly rewarding art pop/rock of rare authenticity. Will you dare to show your boldness and savor this delicious piece of music? Tulipomania presents us with yet another outstanding song, waiting patiently for our initiative.
♦ 8/10
Dimitris Zacharopoulos
