By Tony Van Spaendonk
New York City-based sweetheart sweet93 sings a sigh of misty contemplation on their latest single “what’s true?” Hazy, romantic, and drenched in bliss, sweet93 invites listeners to bask in a nostalgic daydream. In true dream-like fashion, “what’s true?” spins a web of wistful melancholic goodness that defines the artist’s sound. Reverb whispers and ethereal vocals underpin the lush power of shoegaze as a staple in modern alternative rock.
In 2021, sweet93 self-released their debut LP All the Same All OK. The LP is an induction into sweet93’s swirling world of self-discovery experienced through the lens of a digital camera. Standout track “Wonder” meanders through a calm offering of reflection with down-tempo instrumentals and shining vocals. sweet93 marries the sweeping sounds of bands like Slowdive and My Bloody Valentine with Tumblr-era aesthetics like the two are star-crossed lovers.
Recent single “Stars Above” rolls in a wave of heroin-chic melodies. Tambourines shaking like leaves mirror the numbed-out stoner rock that sweet93 echoes with no subtlety. Lingering guitar licks and breathy vocals galore, “Stars Above” is a lullaby made for hopeless romantics. Calling all fans of Mazzy Star and The Brian Jonestown Massacre, your new favorite single is here.
The fuzzy beats of “Be My Best,” another single rolled out in the past year, reinforce sweet93’s simply sweet search for truth and understanding. Vague visions of love and letting go shroud the track in mystery grounded in distorted riffs. Shoegaze fans who just wanna hear more shoegaze will be pleased to know that sweet93 has a new album on the way.
sweet93 will be in Austin supporting Porches on November 13th at Antone’s. Linger by and bliss out to sweet93’s latest singles. Who knows what will happen? You might even slip into a daydream.