Review
As the moon casts its silvery glow over the quiet streets, Whirr's "Raw Blue" becomes the perfect companion for a nocturnal journey of self-discovery. This California-based shoegaze band has emerged from their dormancy with an unexpected Christmas Day release, and the result is a truly captivating album that blends their signature sound with subtle experimental tendencies. The title track "Raw Blue" sets the tone, with gorgeous guitar tones and a quiet-loud-quiet production style that embodies the classic Whirr sound. As the night wears on, tracks like "Walk Through Space" and "Worries Bloom" unfold, each one a masterful balance of dark, dense textures and soothing, invigorating melodies. The album's dynamic production creates a sense of tension and release, drawing the listener deeper into the music.
In the stillness of the night, "Raw Blue" reveals its many layers, with each track offering a unique perspective on the human experience. The album's finale, "Enjoy Everything," is a standout, featuring an unexpected trumpet solo that adds a smoky, late-night romantic ambiance to the proceedings. With "Raw Blue," Whirr has crafted an album that is both a reflection of their growth and a testament to their innovation, prioritizing songwriting over experimentation to create tracks that are both catchy and deeply layered. As the night air whispers secrets to those who listen, "Raw Blue" becomes a dreamlike companion, its bonus tracks like "Speeding" and "Busy" further enhancing the album's mesmerizing atmosphere, a true gem for those who surrender to its allure. - Hannah
