BEST NEW TRACKS: STAGGER – EVER

Wow, guitar music from Australia truly ranks among my absolute favorites! Stagger are a post-punk / noise-shoegaze outfit from Awabakal Country in Newcastle, Australia. Drawing inspiration from English Teacher, Wolf Alice and Turnstile, they fuse dreamy guitar textures with heavy, driving riffs, striking a compelling balance between angst and release.

On the single Ever, you’re greeted in the very first seconds by beautifully resonant feedback, quickly followed by a highly memorable riff. The verses are my favorite part – powered by outstanding drumming, sharp, choppy guitar figures, and a fiercely energetic vocal performance, they feel urgent and alive.

The chorus leans slightly more into a pop sensibility, illuminating the track and opening it up melodically. The layered backing vocals even bring to mind the ’90s-era albums of The Smashing Pumpkins. It’s a meticulously crafted and genuinely impressive piece of work!

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