Is Bliss - Velvet Dreams

by Anthony Strutt

published: 22 / 12 / 2016

Label: Club AC30
Format: 12"

Blissed out shoegaze/psychedelia on debut 12 inch vinyl only EP from Portsmouth-based band Is Bliss

Review

'Velvet Dreams' is the debut EP from Portsmouth-based three-piece Is Bliss who really work for me. They take the magic of shoegaze bands and then throw some psychedelia into the mix. Released on 12 inch in a combination of splattered clear/blue vinyl, it sold out instantly. It opens with 'Morning Sun', which hypnotises me to the bone with its jangle in the same way that Slowdive have done to me in the past. 'Realise' has the instant charm of 4AD Records and their signing Lush. Jimmy Stuart's vocals melt almost in a Cocteau Twins way that is mystical and magical. 'Truth' is deeper and, more like Stoner rock, as moody as The Cure's darker moments. 'Ocean Blue' opens the B-side and goes back to jangle with hip bass and solid drum work while the vocals swim in and outside of its grooves. 'Lure' ends the EP, and is seductive and charming again in a Lush/Slowdive manner. A beautiful record to look at and a feast for the ears.