Slow Coda’s self-titled debut is a blissed-out dreamworld perfect for getting lost in. Tender guitar tones have a surreal quality to them for they are as warm as a blanket. A degree of haze hovers about and they always maintain this sort of shroud throughout the whole of the piece. Drums too have their say for they keep up a hypnotic groove, one that seems to virtually drift off into the sky in a way that is absolutely gorgeous to behold.
Much of their sound has a clear debt to be paid to some of the early 90s groups such as Galaxie500, Slowdive, and My Bloody Valentine’s Isn’t Everything era of work. By choosing a rather classic group of bands, Slow Coda embraces their softer, more delicate rhythms as well. None of these songs could be called driving in any sense of the word, and their ability to pull back from that aggression is admirable. Nor are they alone with this approach, as groups like No Joy and Mac DeMarco also are dealing in a similar soft yet passionate performance.
A bit of delirium opens the album up with the spirited “World of Motion” with the riffs gaining a soulfulness, as the slight fuzz gives it a compassionate, lo-fi quality. “Gap Year” goes in and out of focus in a sweet, kind way, with the guitar athletics in the background further heightening the emotion. By far the highlight comes from the soothing “Spun”. Infinitely catchy, the hooks run on through capturing a summertime spirit. Hits of the drums underpin the woozy spirit of “Levittown”. Neat synthesizers sparkle on through the whole of “Mall Walker” as the rest of the track comes into view.
The steady pace of “Waking Dream” is aptly named, as the song is drenched in a yellowed nostalgia. “Waterbed” features a laid-back mysticism about it, as they work wonders around the genteel joy that seems to radiate throughout. With the right bit of anticipation comes the hints of yearning that weave their way into “Nuclear Saturday”. Economic rhythms take shape with “Melt Away” for the song is endlessly catchy. Despite its short length, “Pink Noise” has an exploratory quality behind it that guides it forward. Neatly bringing the whole thing to a finish is glory of “Totally Gone”.
With their self-titled debut Slow Coda prove to be one of those exceptional groups bringing back late 80s/early 90s dream pop with pure flair.
