New shoegaze from the UK: Hazelene
Warmly fuzzed with shiny ringlets and hazy vocals "Every Loss" is the debut single by Hazelene, a UK-based multi-instrumentalist melding dreampop, sixties girl group sass, psych and shoegaze.
"Every Loss" explores standing on the precipice as things change," Hazelene explains.
Referred to as a 'primitive banger', the song builds by slowing to a poignant pause and the words, "turn the page // had I known...". It's a sort of "Golden Hair" moment that might move you to think of Rachel Goswell (and the blue-haired girl). The gentle fuzz and shine of "Every Loss" resolves to carry forward while cutting ties with those fleeting words of regret to one's self.
"The lyrics came instantly to me after an event where I suddenly felt my feelings change dramatically. I could see two different paths to my future. The feeling of not fitting in, of moving in between. And most of all, keeping cheerful, engaged and pushing forward, even when everything is falling apart."
Listeners will hear Hazelene's affinity with Cocteau Twins, Lush, Slowdive and Ride. In fact, Ride's Mark Gardener is credited with mastering the track. Seablite, Pale Blue Eyes, Mo Dotti and The Orielles are noted among Hazelene's admired next-gen shoegazers.
"I love guitar, but have always found it intimidating," Hazelene admitted. "I learned, that with added emotion, actually a good song could be very simple, and being a primitive musician was something to celebrate, not hide."
"Every Loss" feeds curiosity for what Hazelene will do next. Links for Hazelene here.
"Every Loss" by Hazelene is officially released on 23 May 2024.
Guitar, bass, drums, vocals and lyrics by Hazelene.
Recorded and mixed by Ian Flynn/Werkhouse.
Mastered by Mark Gardener.