Haunting, raw and gloomy, ‘Empire’ is a strongly compelling offering, a slice of lush darkness and melancholic, gritty rock delivered with charisma and anthemic energy by Florida-based outfit Velvet Sun. Originally founded in New York City more than twenty years ago, the band has recently rediscovered their creative flair, with single ‘Wait’ released back in March, now followed up by an impressive EP, ‘Empire’. There’s a lot to discover in it, with the band’s eclectic influences spanning decades of guitar-based music history.
The title track opens ‘Empire’ in fiery fashion, instantly showcasing Velvet Sun’s fragrant, vigorous guitar distortions and lamentuous vocals, all steeped in nuanced psychedelia. ‘Wait’ takes a more positive, new-wave flavoured approach, further augmented by dreamy vocals and nostalgic lyricism. ‘Star’ is certainly the fiercer track on the record, fast-paced and rumbling, yet with a certain shoegaze component in it.
‘Wonder’ takes the EP to a close with vintage post-punk character, as if Velvet Sun were to unveil all of their influences one after one. You’ve got your wall of sounds, your dissonant distortions and your vocal-powered lighter bits. Eventually, we can only rejoice in their work: their artistry has lasted the test of time.
Recommended! Discover ‘Empire’ on Spotify and Youtube:
