Horsegirl — the New York-via-Chicago trio of best friends Nora Cheng, Penelope Lowenstein, and Gigi Reece are to release their second album, “Phonetics On and On”. Produced by Cate Le Bon and recorded at The Loft in Chicago, the band’s original and sonic home, “Phonetics On and On” is an exploration of the lines between pop, minimalism, and playful experimentation.
This will be Horsegirl’s second full-length album is a departure from their first. Rather than the fuzzed-out shoegaze sound of 2022’s “Versions Of Modern Performance”, “Phonetics On And On” explores “new, bright, clear, sonic territories that highlight the inventive nature of these new songs.” What’s not different is the band’s uncanny ability to transport listeners with their music; their first album was a throwback to the indie scene circa 1997, while this one sounds more like it belongs in the early 2000s. It’s an impressive thing for three people who weren’t even alive in the ’90s to be able to capture and their ability to filter that sound through a modern lens is captivating.
Horsegirl returned to Chicago to record in January 2024, finding focus and intimacy in the studio that can only arise when it’s simply too cold to step outside. Le Bon led them into new, bright, clear, sonic territories highlighting the inventive nature of these songs. New tools help bring this world to life; violins, synths, and gamelan tiles are all woven into the record. The songs are a testament to experimenting with space and texture while maintaining a pop song at the core. All the while, a confident simplicity brings the band’s songwriting ability to the forefront.
It’s hard to imagine any of these songs being written by anyone but Nora, Penelope, and Gigi. Horsegirl write with unanticipated honesty, leading us through scenes of girlhood and youth. These are moments of their lives. The indelible truth is that Horsegirl is a band of best friends; being around them you can see that love in their eyes and it is always a joyous thing to witness. It’s a love that is ever-present in “Phonetics On and On” as tenderness reverberates back and forth across the recording.
Horsegirl hailing from the vibrant music scene of Chicago, Illinois. With their unique sound and captivating performances, they have quickly gained a loyal following. Their music blends elements of indie rock, post-punk, and shoegaze to create a truly distinctive sound that sets them apart from other bands in the genre. Horsegirl’s lyrics are introspective and thought-provoking, tackling themes of identity, mental health, and societal issues. Whether you’re a fan of rock music or simply appreciate innovative artistry, Horsegirl is a band that should not be missed.
Formed in [year], Horsegirl Since their inception, they have been making waves in the music industry with their powerful live performances and critically acclaimed releases. Their debut album received widespread praise for its raw energy and emotional depth.
With their growing popularity and undeniable talent, Horsegirl has become one of the most exciting up-and-coming bands in the American rock scene. They continue to push boundaries with their music while staying true to their roots. Keep an eye out for upcoming shows and new releases from this dynamic trio – you won’t want to miss what they have in store!
‘Phonetics On and On,’ the new album from Horsegirl out February 14th, 2025 on Matador Records.
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