deary is a London UK based dream pop project consisting of Dottie (vocals) and Ben (guitar) with help from Sammy (keyboards/drums). Their new self-titled debut EP was mastered by Simon Scott (Slowdive). They wear some influences on their sleeves (MBV, Slowdive, Cocteau Twins) but they tout less obvious touchpoints like Saint Etienne and Felt Mountain-era Goldfrapp. The opening track ‘Heaven’ meshes sweet whooshes of Dottie’s vocals with MBV-styled guitar figures. It sticks in your head and each time I hear it, I pick up something new in the mix. Just the perfect opener for this song suite.
It moves into Slowdive and Cocteaus territory with the bell-like ‘Only Need’. It hearkens back to classic Thames Valley era music, but also opens up new musical vistas with modern production. It is pure headphone music of the highest order. The ‘Fairground’ single appeared on many playlists earlier this year, and for good reason. It is gorgeous, sylvan dream pop, mesmerizing with its gentle percussive cadence, a mix of trip hop and dream pop. Definitely one of the best singles I’ve heard this year. Excellent all around! It portends great things for this young group.
‘Want You’ channels Mazzy Star (never a bad thing!). As Dottie coos and murmurs softly, it’s like being inside the best daydream ever! ‘Sleepsong’ brings in a bit of Cocteau Twins, and it’s another stellar musical ride. ‘Beauty in all Blue Satin’ is the final offering here, and I am reminded of French bands like Stereolab or Autour de Lucie. It has that hazy, late day by the riverbank feel, with soft light and good friends surrounding you. I really like this EP, and I think any fan who values excellent dream pop with psych and shoegaze elements will appreciate this. Highly recommended!
