While scrolling through shuffle mode on Spotify, I stumbled upon a track that immediately caught my ear—a rich, dreamy haze interwoven with a haunting melodic line.
Intrigued, I dove deeper and discovered it belonged to Bubble Tea and Cigarettes, the American duo known for crafting lush, atmospheric soundscapes.
Their second album, we should’ve killed each other, released via Lauren Records, is a captivating exploration of the indie dream pop and shoegaze genres.
The album’s sound is a striking blend of nostalgic bedroom pop aesthetics mixed with a shoegazey wash that feels both ethereal and deeply introspective. The duo’s approach to songcraft is subtle yet impactful, layering reverb-drenched guitars with delicate vocals that drift in and out, like secrets whispered through a dense fog. There’s a lingering sense of melancholy that permeates the entire record, but it’s balanced by moments of shimmering beauty and understated warmth.
Each track feels meticulously constructed, with the duo using a variety of ambient textures and reverb-heavy instrumentation to create a dreamy, atmospheric cocoon for listeners. At times, the music feels like it’s floating in suspended animation, inviting introspection and emotional resonance. Yet, there’s also a pulsating undercurrent to some songs, hinting at a restlessness that contrasts beautifully with the otherwise languid, drifting soundscapes.
we should’ve killed each other is an immersive experience, perfect for those seeking music that evokes vivid emotion and a sense of wonder. Bubble Tea and Cigarettes have delivered a record that not only exemplifies the dreamy and shoegazey genre but also adds a uniquely intimate touch, making it a standout addition to this year’s indie releases.
we should’ve killed each other gets: 📷📷📷📷📷📷📷/10.