REVIEW

The debut EP from Los Angeles- and Beijing-based shoegaze artist Cuspid.

Currently known only as an 18-year-old admirer of Deftones and Lana Del Rey, this mysterious newcomer delivers astonishing quality on a first outing. Heavy guitar meshes with ethereal melodies reminiscent of Wisp, yet Cuspid’s vocals are darker and more immersive, and the tracks lean toward downtempo heaviness, evoking a sense of melancholy as if sinking to the ocean floor—closer in mood to Graywave or Slow Crush. For listeners wishing Wisp were slightly darker, this EP could be ideal.

#1 “Debris” opens with roaring guitars slicing through the space while misty vocals resonate hauntingly, creating a striking contrast. #2 “Floor 12” unfolds with uneasy arpeggios and a slow progression, gradually building to a release of sorrow by the end. #3 “Flyaway” connects seamlessly with a delicate intro, maintaining a fluid and compelling flow. The closing #4 “Whiplash” takes a slow-tempo approach, carefully weaving melodies and leaving a lingering impression. All four tracks stand at a remarkable level of quality.

Already a strong contender for AOTY, Cuspid is an emerging shoegaze artist to watch, following in the footsteps of Wisp. Current Spotify monthly listeners number just 680, but the trajectory promises much more in the near future.