SINGLE REVIEW: Foreign Shapes - Sleazy Jet
Foreign Shapes return with 'Sleazy Jet', a track that seamlessly balances intimacy and grandeur, pulling from an eclectic mix of alt-rock, prog, and power-pop influences. The band weave hypnotic rhythms, delicate vocal harmonies, and glacial, synth-like textures into a soundscape that feels both dreamy and commanding—an exploration of nostalgia’s push and pull, wrapped in an intricate, ever-evolving arrangement.
From the outset, there's a mystical allure to the track, its understated verses drawing the listener in with thoughtful, calming warmth. The vocals feel authentic and introspective, flowing effortlessly over intricate rhythms and shimmering layers of melody. As the song builds, it expands into something far bigger—its commanding chorus bursts forward with raw, emotional power, balancing confidence with deep reflection.
The instrumentation is as meticulously crafted as the song’s themes. Doo-wop-inspired arpeggios intertwine with gritty, 90s-infused alt-rock guitars, while unexpected shifts in time signature add a progressive edge. When the blistering guitar solo arrives, it’s a moment of pure catharsis—melodic, expressive, and elevating the track’s complexities even further. The experimental noise blast that follows adds another layer of depth, enhancing the song’s rich, textured world.
Foreign Shapes have crafted something special with 'Sleazy Jet'—a track that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking, intimate yet vast. Its dreamlike soundscape and layered intricacies make it an enchanting listen, leaving behind a lingering question: does nostalgia offer comfort, or does it hold us back? Either way, the journey is mesmerising.