Seattle-based band The Sleepy Haunts show impressive range on their new EP, bloom, vol. 1. Frontwoman and singer/songwriter Gillian McMahon leads a powerful sound, ranging from the peppy rock vibrancy of “Peter Parker” to the emotive folk-pop within “standing, waiting.” A persistently emotive enthrallment persists throughout the EP, recorded in Portland, Oregon.
“why do i feel this way?” kickstarts the album with a melodic, emotive infection. A dynamic tonal charm is evident in the track’s hooky escalation. “I’m tired of asking, why do I feel this way?” the vocals ask, with the first section touting a dreamy introspection and the latter launching into an impassioned pop/rock enamoring. The subsequent “standing, waiting” casts a dreamier spell with its tender acoustic stylings and light piano. Twinkling piano and wordless vocals captivate during the chorus, and into a soaring “how hard it is,” satiation.
The EP’s second half continues the quality form and eclectic display, also succeeding with a rousing rocker and contemplative folk-friendly charmer. “Peter Parker” invigorates with a brisker pop-punk vibrancy, as crunchy guitars swell into a multi-layered vocal contagiousness during the replay-inducing rise. Meanwhile, “the end (morning after)” wraps up the EP with a serene folk glow, culminating in a touching “this is the end,” refrain with textured rock additions. bloom, vol. 1 is a fulfilling, engaging showcase of The Sleepy Haunts’ riveting sound. We’re excited for their upcoming album.
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“why do i feel this way?” and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Best of December 2023’ Spotify playlist.
We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
