Beachtape - “Someone Like Hugh”

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 4 

Pairs Well With…Slow Pulp, Lunar Vacation, Pavement

Brighton, England’s Beachtape plays a grungy form of indie rock, hiding some power pop hooks in their slacker rock riffs and droning feedback. Recorded with a distant garage/bedroom rock intention, the band’s 2017 debut EP Hold Music and a trio of follow-up singles sound intentionally vulnerable instead of incessantly driving. It’s a nice touch in the alt/modern rock space and makes Beachtape’s tracks feel real and comfortable with a mid-tempo ease. Lookout for SXSW to coincide with a new EP Beachtape has been brewing that should continue to grow their subtly breezy and accessible sound. (Kevin McStravick)