What is going on with shoegaze these days? When did this subgenre become such a phenomenon? I’ve been trying to find the point of origin and it’s quite complex. Instead of trying to figure out all that at the moment, why not just enjoy the best of what’s out there. The ones that have really left a mark on me have done just that. These select bands and albums have not just found their way into constant rotation, they’ve separated themselves from the pack well enough to make a lasting impression on the genre and era. Trauma Ray is one of those bands and their latest release, the EP, Carnival, absolutely cements that.
Carnival is one of those perfect EP’s that is a burst of creativity. By opening up the writing to be more collaborative, the vast expansive inspiration is aplenty here. This unlocked a whole other world for the band to travel in. What’s interesting too is these influences are cast without biting off a duplicate rendition. If you’ve heard the bands debut, Chameleon, you can definitely hear the wings stretching here. In a way it reminds me of the band Brand New and how the more open collaboration made the band even better. What Carnival does across five songs and twenty five minutes makes you fall into a trance of lush soundscapes, dreamy vocals, riffs and melodies that caress the delicate and at times intense rhythms. The use of not just shoegaze aspects is another treat. Like many of the other great bands of this genre, there is more to Trauma Ray. Other sounds and styles like metal, alternative, sludge, doom, grunge, ambience all play a part in making this one stand out release. Each song takes on a bit of a life of its own with the way the influences shine.
It’s very refreshing to hear a band like Trauma Ray taking the sum of their parts and realizing making a record that not only showcases the individual effort but pushes the band forward into making great music. Carnival is for sure a ride and one worth riding over and over again.
Buy Carnival HERE
By: Brian Lacy
TRAUMA RAY- CARNIVAL:
Hannibal (Music Video):
