by Dan Goldin (@post_trash_)
In Hindsight, the full length debut from St. Louis’ Algae Dust is out this Friday, December 1st, just in time to bring some warmth to the oncoming chill. Following a split with Hennen back in 2021 that mostly featured Alison Setili playing solo, their Sad Cactus Records (Tundrastomper, Gorgeous, Mothpuppy) debut moves away from the gentle sound of bedroom pop toward something with a bit more grit and muscle. Setili - now joined by Hannah Rainey (Shady Bug, Hennen, Dubb Nubb), Gram Tolish (Frankie Valet), and Noah Yacyshyn (Camp Counselor) - weaves her radiant vocal melodies through synth focused dream pop, tranquil shoegaze, and gluey indie pop hooks. The songs are layered with harmonies and warming tones, the bed of guitars and shimmering keys jangling between fuzz and a meditative ease in a way that sometimes recalls the Vivian Girls.
After sharing the record’s lead single, “Sleepaway,” a sweet and hooky song built on forlorn power-pop, the band offer up “Halves,” another exceptional preview prior to the album’s release later this week. With resonating synths and sprightly bass, “Halves” feels like it could soundtrack your favorite twee compilation or just as easily be the one of the best coming-of-age TV show theme songs that never was. Setili’s vocals sound fantastic over the chiming and layered progressions, her voice occasionally doubled for greater impact. The video, directed by Jess Pierce, is beautifully shot with scenes split between the band performing in a sun soaked field and enjoying a leisurely picnic.