REVIEW

The debut EP from Chicago-based shoegaze band Bosses.

Formed in 2022 around Harlee Young (Gt/Vo), Bosses draw inspiration from ’90s alternative rock, citing bands such as Superheaven, Microwave, Nothing, and Bleed. The group describes their sound as “heavy shoegaze,” and the EP demonstrates a dense, powerful sonic approach comparable to those influences, while allowing Harlee’s vocals to maintain a distinct presence.

Harlee’s lower-register singing contributes a brooding, melancholic atmosphere that resonates with fans of darker-leaning vocalists like Slow Crush, Iress, and Graywave. While all tracks stand out, #4 “Transcendental” particularly captures the EP’s immersive, extended intensity.

Despite their brief two-year history, Bosses have already supported acts such as Soul Blind and Rezn, and are scheduled to perform alongside Sungaze in March. The band appears poised for further growth, making this a must-listen for heavy shoegaze enthusiasts.