The Velveteins - “Make It Through”

SXSW 2022 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 6

Pairs Well With…Tame Impala, King Gizzard & the Lizard Wizard, The Lemon Twigs

Psychedelic rock, dream pop, and indie rock forms propel The Velveteins' music, adventurous songs balanced between light and ragged. 70s rock and pop influences feature prominently on their debut 2017 album Slow Wave and two recent single from an upcoming, unnamed sophomore record. Sometimes dealt in breezy slices of surf rock, others more tripped out affairs, The Velveteins keep things loose and beyond ABA kind of verse/chorus structures. That mentality allows for their tracks to maintain a raw atmosphere instead of playing the role of pure throwback artists. Sunny and woozy 2021 singles “Make It Through” and “Cosmic Saturation” are among the most relaxed, breezy songs in The Velveteins’ catalog, a little more pop-centric and mature as the band continues to evolve. Expect news of a follow-up to Slow Wave soon to hear the rest of their infectious, mid-tempo psych rock vibes in 2022. The Velveteins showcase Tuesday night for BreakOut West alongside fellow Canadian artists Meltt, JayWood, Mauvey, The Garrys, and Begonia. (Kevin McStravick)