This new page of The Sleepy Haunts’ diary is named bloom, Vol. 1, and it is filled with promises. Let’s jump into the review of an emotional EP.
BLOOM, VOL. 1 – THE SLEEPY HAUNTS
The good news is: the band is getting a new album ready. There is no bad news. After listening to this EP, you’ll understand why. These four tracks on bloom, Vol. 1 are only a tease, a glimpse, a necessary introduction to what The Sleepy Haunts can do. Led by Gillian McMahon, the band is getting some grunge colours on, sometimes highlighted by pop or punk, depending on the mood. And moods and feelings are numerous on this beautiful EP.
First jealousy, and the urge to surpass it. Because if it’s a strong and universal feeling, it’s also uncomfortable and no one wants to feel jealous. The song why do i feel this way? hits by its catchy intro and its honesty. Filled with determination in its powerful guitars and the vocals, rather hushed in the mix here, confirm it all: the Seattle-based band is to be kept on the radar. Then, it’s a softer contrasting track that comes in: standing, waiting. Just, empathic and tender, it’s a hanging moment, touching in its folk inspirations.
Peter Parker shows up here in a loving pop-punk song. The deep riffs and round bass are in charge of the romantic rock atmosphere. It’s fun, kind and catchy. Then, a lot more political, the end (morning after) is about the changes in the abortion laws the United States went through. Both heartbreaking and feminist, the band starts soberly with the vocals and guitar alone before a desperate and epic bright spark. The Sleepy Haunts end bloom, Vol. 1 this way, and I find myself between euphoria and deep sorrow. Glad to have discovered such a band, I am immensely moved by this typhoon of emotions. What’s next is going to be fantastic, for sure!
