Portland, Oregon, act Radiation City convey this synthy style of dream-pop that takes over your senses. Reminiscent of Portishead and Roxy Music, the band takes bits and pieces of trip-hop and art rock and blends it into an art form that’s truly their own. Their upcoming album, Synesthetica, has tracks that’ll entrance you while others will have you shaking your hips. From start to finish, each song brings something different to the table, but the whole album has a distinct flow. Portland has a wonderful music scene, and Radiation City’s new album is an excellent example of that city’s unique culture still going strong.
It’s hard to believe that before Synesthetica was conceived, Radiation City was almost going to call it quits. The base of the band is centered around the songwriting partnership of Cameron Spies and Lizzie Ellison, who are also a couple. Their relationship was falling apart and then they both started recording new songs. Through that they rediscovered the magic of their music. Sometimes the best art comes out of the toughest of times, and Synesthetica is proof of that. The impeccable rhythms promise to make the album one of the best early releases of 2016.
About time I got back to writing this thing, huh? It’s been a tad chaotic start to the year for yours truly, but it’s definitely satisfying to get back to diving into this weekly write-up. Speaking of diving, take a dive into my top tracks off of the album of the week:
The subtle rhythms and beats in “Oil Show” start the track in fantastic fashion, but when the guitar kicks in you’ll be absolutely floored. “Juicy” is the first single off of the album; it has ambient qualities and even a little bit of shoegaze. The beat sets the tone for a groovy track that’ll hook you. With more of an electro-soul vibe, “Milky White” will hit you straight in the heart.
Radiation City will start a tour of the United States and Canada shortly after the official release of Synesthetica on February 12 with Seattle indie rockers Deep Sea Diver. Both acts will make a stop at Great Scott in Allston, Massachusetts on March 3. It should be a rad time, so you should absolutely consider going if you’re in town. While you’re there, pick up a copy of the new album from Radiation City. It’ll take your senses somewhere else and you won’t even have to leave your seat.
Stream “Juicy” on Radiation City’s Bandcamp: https://radiationcity.bandcamp.com/track/juicy
Radiation City’s Website: http://www.radiationcity.net