REVIEW

The second EP from London-based UK dream pop duo deary.

deary was formed by guitarist/producer Ben Easton and vocalist/guitarist Rebecca “Dottie” Cockram, who met through a mutual friend during lockdown and bonded over a shared love of shoegaze.

Their music feels like a rare contemporary continuation of a lineage stretching from 4AD-era Cocteau Twins to Projekt Records, situating deary as a valuable presence within that tradition. On this EP, the sonic presentation has noticeably evolved from their debut: the mix is sharper and more refined, allowing each element to breathe while balancing vast, oceanic swells with an almost breakable delicacy.

A clear highlight is #2 “The Moth,” which leans strongly into trip-hop influences. Combining the lush romanticism associated with Cocteau Twins and the shadowy restraint of Portishead, the track shimmers with prismatic guitar tones that evoke the sensation of being lost inside a kaleidoscope. It stands as one of the most striking dream pop moments of the year. The accompanying music video further enhances the experience, recalling the unsettling beauty of Picnic at Hanging Rock.

Currently, deary perform live as a four-piece with the addition of bass and drums. Despite their relatively short history, they have already supported acts ranging from established names like Slowdive and Cranes to newer artists such as Wisp, suggesting a trajectory that continues to widen both their audience and their reach.