The weather has just cracked 80 degrees for the first time since Winter, and you’re sitting oceanside with your friends. The sunlight bounces off the sea surface, shining like diamonds, and a slightly cool breeze dances through the scene. The chatter and laughter of your friends surround you, and for a moment, everything feels peaceful and true. At least, that’s what it feels like to listen to Blushing and their third studio album, “Sugarcoat”.
Respect My Region was lucky enough to catch up with the band over Zoom to discuss emotions, songwriting, and all things re: the new album.
The Austin-based outfit, comprised of a double husband-and-wife duo, knows how to capture the sound of whimsy. “Sugarcoat”, released on the heels of their esteemed sophomore album “Posessions”, is an ethereal and introspective journey through indie-rock and Shoegaze revival. Dreamy, swirling reverb, gooey guitar riffs, and hauntingly beautiful vocals characterize this 11-song love letter to dream-pop. Think: Cocteau Twins meet Concrete Blonde for a picnic in the park.
Blushing Shines on New Album “Sugarcoat”
From the opening track, “Intro,” Blushing sets the tone with cinematic, ascending energy and dancing distortion. The song “Tamagotchi” follows suit, both alluring and bright. Lead singer Christina Carmona’s vocals capture all the syrupy sweetness of a cool orange soda, while impressively maintaining a slightly grungy edge. “I really pushed myself on my vocal performance,” remarked Christina, “…I wanted my voice to sound less floaty.” The result is a captivating vocal timbre equal parts soft and powerful.
One of the standout tracks, “Slyce,” exemplifies the band’s ability to craft emotionally resonant music. Carmona’s voice dances effortlessly over layers of reverb-drenched guitars and sultry basslines, conveying a sense of longing and vulnerability. Lyrics “Waiting for the final purpose/to show it can not be found/Will it ever fail to hurt us?/Who knows go another round” are achingly beautiful, representing the struggle to find purpose and meaning in existence. Yet, the song remains melodic and effervescent, making it perfectly suited to the listener’s every mood.
The album oscillates between introspective ballads and dynamic, upbeat tracks – all while weaving a consistent thread of dreamy production style. When asked whether the songwriting process is easier in a particular state of emotion, guitarist Michelle Soto answered “I tend to create more when happy because typically being happy and motivated go hand in hand for me…however…I tend to draw on a well of darker, more traumatic memories and experiences for lyrical content”. This capacity for both positive and negative emotions gives the album a relatable and approachable feel, as it mirrors the ranging feelings of the human experience.
With a sonic texture like warm velvet, tracks like “Seafoam” and “Sugarcoat” explore themes of loss, love, and identity in an ever-changing world. Meanwhile, tracks like “Fizz” and “Pull You in Two” remain buoyant and bright, creating a beautiful sense of thematic harmony throughout the album.
“Sugarcoat” is an impressive testament to the versatility of Blushing’s sound, as closing tracks “Say When” and “Debt” possess an almost proto-goth sensibility. Dark and mystical, the tracks effortlessly convey Blushing’s diverse musical influences. From goth to shoegaze, psych-rock to world music, “Sugarcoat” spans it all seamlessly.
“We are so grateful for the response to our new album “Sugarcoat”, and the US/CAN Tour just wrapped up,” Michelle offered. “We had an amazing time and are so thankful to everyone who has supported us through the years.” Whether you’ve been an early fan or are a brand new listener, Blushing’s singular saccharine sound is one to continue to watch out for. Stay tuned for Blushing’s upcoming projects, and be sure to stream “Sugarcoat” on all platforms.
