The Redeemer EP (Nefarious Industries) is the debut release from Dreamwheel, a duo consisting of Evan Linger (guitar, bass, piano, synth — also of Skeletonwitch and Cultist) and Julia Gaeta (vocals — also of Madrigal and Light of the Morning Star; formerly of Albez Duz and Restless Ghosts). On this album, the core members are also aided by James Stewart (drums) and Tom Zwanger (percussion and sounds).
The band’s early demo tracks have garnered the attention of fans of DIIV, The Chameleons and Siouxsie and the Banshees. And indeed, Redeemer is heavily infused with the influence of late seventies/early eighties post-punk, along with a bit of nineties shoegaze and dark indie rock. Though a more modern comparison would be Beastmilk, the project of Hexvessel singer Kvohst that ultimately morphed into Grave Pleasures.
Throughout the 22-minute, 5-song EP, Gaeta’s vocals are central. Whether layered up in glorious harmony or providing a single melody line, her relaxed and flowing style, tinged with just a hint of desperation, is superbly captivating. The vocal melodies themselves are immediate and memorable, with catchy choruses at the nexus of every song.
The generally fast-paced music rolls along with a gliding bittersweetness that is as joyful as it is melancholic. This cocktail of seemingly disparate emotion recalls the joyous darkness of bands like All About Eve and Cocteau Twins. Glassy guitar arpeggios thick with atmospheric reverb swirl around driving bass and dexterously punchy drums.
Redeemer can’t really be said to be heavy in sonic terms, but its pop sensibility is undeniably counterbalanced by somewhat menacing undertones. It’s an easy listen that also has a shadowy mystery about it.
Whilst Redeemer doesn’t necessarily reach any uncharted territory, it is nevertheless a bewitching synthesis of gothic and post-punk influences that is underpinned by outstanding songwriting. No doubt many who hear it will be eagerly awaiting Dreamwheel’s debut full-length album.
Buy the EP here.
https://dreamwheel.bandcamp.com/album/redeemer
7 / 10
DUNCAN EVANS