BIRTHH - “Supermarkets”

SXSW 2023 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 6

Pairs Well With…The xx, London Grammar, Caroline Polachek

BIRTHH’s latest record is 2020’s WHOA, the Italian band’s sophomore effort and a relaxed take on cooled-out trip hop. While by-the-numbers on WHOA when it comes to trip hop models, BIRTHH does nail their goal sound and have crafted an accessible, pretty, and spaced-out addition to the genre. There’s a nice consistency track to track on WHOA, a formed mood piece that should transcend to an equally comforting and emotive set this SXSW. Look out for new tracks as well; it’s been three years since WHOA and it’ll be interesting to see if they choose to go bigger or more insular on the next release. (Kevin McStravick)

2020 Review: BIRTHH finally has a follow-up ready from her minimal electronic pop debut Born in the Woods and the Italian artist has embraced more of an indie folk direction judging from the trio of singles from WHOA, due this March. While bare acoustic moments highlight “Supermarket” and the wrenching “Parakeet”, there are dynamic production elements that twist something lonely into moments more mysterious and inventive. “Yello / Concrete” is the exception from the rule, a cool trip hop number that highlights BIRTHH’s R&B grooviness within a spacious plane.