Fusing hope and hesitation with heart-wrenching ease, Bleach Lab’s latest single ‘Real Thing’ is a dream-pop delight. Following on from their debut EP A Calm Sense of Surrounding, the South-London based indie group’s latest track shows Bleach Lab at what they do best: endearing, emotional indie with a hint of electronica.
Like candy that can kill, there’s a sweet sadness to ‘Real Thing.’ “It’s about wanting to find a more meaningful and lasting connection with someone,” explains vocalist Jenna Kyle. “I had been processing a lot of issues over the last couple of years to do with previous relationships and personal development, and I had finally reached a place where I felt I was in the right state of mind to be open to looking for something new.”
Saturated with the shoegazy sounds like Slowdive and Mazzy Star, it’s no surprise that the single was produced by alt-rock genius Stephen Street, who has produced tracks from The Smiths, Blur and The Cranberries in the past. The song’s acoustic guitars, soft electronic drumbeats and reverb depict the rectifying promise of budding romances. Kyle envelops her lyrics with longing as delicately as silk sits on skin: “I really wanna see you again / I wanna be more than friends,” which seems more like a prayer than a refrain.
Tender, touching and tactful, the new track emulates the melancholy melodies of Heaven or Las Vegas. If you find the slightly soul-crushing sounds of the Cocteau Twins comforting, Bleach Lab is the band for you.
Listen to ‘Real Thing’ below.
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Jay Mitra
@punkofcolour