Hailing from Switzerland, Annie Taylor gives off serious grunge heavy, surf rock vibes. Their sound is far from clean, but it’s exactly this grittiness which makes it so addictive—the seductive, moody, new wave lyrics coupled with 80s power ballad riffs makes you want to go on a psychedelic, surf-rock journey into space.
And that’s exactly what it feels like listening to their new single “Telephone”: it leaves you in a flurry of starry-eyed wonder, a bit agitated and yet somehow sure of your destination. With a surface layer of heaviness covering a rather soft, garage-punk underbelly, the sound feels oh so good–I dig it and you probably will too.
Featuring a great soundtrack paired with motorcycle heavy imagery, one can’t help but be reminded of the 1969 film Easy Rider when watching the “Telephone” music video. If you haven’t already watched the film, go ahead and do that now. I’ll wait…
Now that we’ve brought your cult classic cinematic knowledge back up to speed, let’s dive a little deeper shall we? “Telephone” incorporates elements we’ve heard with bands like the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, The Ramones, and even Blondie— “Telephone” somehow reminds me of a more psychedelic version of Blondie’s “Atomic”. I know I sound out of my mind when I say this, but take a listen and tell me I’m wrong. Here’s the thing—I can’t box in their sound like most bands—yes they have elements of 80s new wave, 70s punk and psychedelic garage, but they also incorporate the rhythm so often heard in 60s surf rock and the grungy delivery of indie rock sirens. I can’t say more other than I am unable to classify them—they are truly artists who have sought inspiration across a wide variety of genres and decades. This is the work of true artists—to take from others but to create in a completely new way—not to imitate but to give adoration to. Who even is able to still do this in the modern age? Apparently, Annie Taylor, and they continue to deliver–without explanation–without understanding, but with great finesse.
Don’t take my word for it, watch their music video here:
“Telephone” is the third song from their upcoming debut album Sweet Mortality, which will be released on September 4th via Taxi Gauche Records.
Review written by Isabella Moulton– a stylist and designer by day, and aesthetic aficionado by night. For inquiries, please contact her at: theeccentricbourgeoisie@gmail.com | Keep it groovy <3
