A Shoreline Dream
Whirlwind
Reviewed by: Tiffany Taylor
Let’s start off with how complexly unique A Shoreline Dream is for releasing each track of their new album one by one. After doing some research on the duo, comprised of Ryan Policky and Erik Jeffries, I learned that they put out music that completely fits them. The band is not trying to appeal to a set group of people or trying to conform into something society wants them to be. Each track was filled with delicate and intense emotion, notes placed in particular spots and riffs created all for specific reasons. The duo is definitely strong and set into who they want to be as musicians and that was obvious up to five years ago. Time does not constrain A Shoreline Dream and that is clear and apparent for how they are choosing to release this next record.
Beginning with the quintessential hit Whirlwind, listeners can get a feel for the shoegaze infused dream rock with a hint of emo vocals. Regardless of what you take from it, the song is well produced and raw in feel. However, the track really has a repetitive base, while making it easy to follow, it lacks depth and that edge which would make it stand apart. The static sound in the background is the only contrast sound in the song that gives it a slight bit of difference. The lyrics and backbeat are the same throughout the entire song…sadly ending just when you think things may make a turn- they do not.
A Shoreline Dream follows in the steps of many indie rock artists, but chooses to take their own path that branches off from the norm. “Revolvist” is one of those tracks that falls right into the category of different. The backdrop is weird and interesting, especially towards the end with just the drum beats and jagged guitar notes. The silence that surrounds that part in itself is beautiful because it showcases a solitary moment in the song where everything feels halted.
My favorite track released is “The Heart Never Recovered”, with droning vocals and a light and rhythmic guitar base throughout- it is beautiful. The high notes that come up for air in the background give the entire song it’s roots. Without the guitar giving the dream rock feel, the song would fall flat, so now we have a ’90s rock song revamped and produced with a much more relatable and relative feel.
Overall, A Shoreline Dream delivers something interesting and quaint. They do fall flat in some areas that really need excitement but in their own way are unique and creative.
Rating: Listenable
