6 Bands to Catch at Delay Relay
Written by Charity Lynn (@_charitylynn_)
Delay Relay, Korea’s only shoegaze-focused festival, returns this month for its second year. With an even heavier lineup made up of shoegaze, post-rock, and other kindred genres, this festival is sure to envelop you in waves of distorted warmth over the next five frigid weeks.
Still not sure which of the thirteen performances to catch? Then this list might help give you a little inspiration.
Zzzaam
Zzzaam are true legends in the Korean shoegaze scene. Formed in the late 90s, they released three albums in the early 2000s before slipping into an almost two-decade-long hiatus. However, to the delight of longtime fans and newcomers alike, the band returned to the stage and studio in 2023. Zzzaam weaves together the hazy weight of shoegaze, the slow-burn of post-rock, with a sprinkle of psychidelia, creating performances that feel nostalgic and magical. Despite the band’s name, you won’t be snoozing during their set.
Monotheism
Monotheism delivers dark, distorted post-rock instrumentals that fully satisfy the urge to sink into something heavy and immersive. With no accompanying vocals, they rely purely on atmosphere, which, in its own way, creates a more emotional connection among their listeners. Not to mention, they have some seriously sick guitar solos. What truly sets Monotheism apart, however, is their visual identity. Their cult-like aesthetic creates an almost ritualistic experience. They are the perfect band to rock out to.
HAN
The list of up-and-coming shoegaze artists is ever-growing, but one name has been quietly lurking in the shadows, ready to step into the light for his very first festival appearance. HAN fuses together layered shoegaze textures, emo-leaning intensity, and the raw refreshness of youth. His music teems with restless emotion and angst that feels both personal and familiar. This is the kind of sound that invites you to fully give in and feel all your emotions.
Zanryupa
Zanryupa is a band made for shoegaze. With a blend of ethereal melodies and distorted sounds, they create an immersive, dream-like soundscape that gently pulls listeners in. Their songs unfold with a hypnotic calm, balancing softness and noise in a way that feels both delicate and overwhelming. The band’s recurring theme of dreams invites you to slow down and linger. Their performances are nothing short of beautiful and mesmerising. They are an ideal fit for those interested in a gentler, more languid performance.
Leaveourtears
Leavourtears is an essential presence on any shoegaze lineup. He writes music that is perfectly hypnotic and heavy with feeling, creating a space where beauty and melancholy collide. There is something about the towering distortion and reverb-soaked melodies that makes his music addictive. Leaveourtears is sure to offer a performance that lingers long after the final notes fade. His set is one that is perfect for first-time shoegaze listeners. And honestly? He is just really cool.
Post Inner Circle
Post Inner Circle is one of the brightest gems on this lineup, and they only just debuted last year. This indie-dreampop-shoegaze fusion band is a treat to both our ears and mind, their sound feeling as comforting as it is captivating. The airy vocals that float over fuzzy pop melodies and ethereal instrumentals give a gentle sense of hope and belonging. There’s a warmth to Post Inner Circle’s music that has the power to break boundaries and draw together even the most different individuals. They are an ideal choice for anyone who wants to gently ease into these genres.