REVIEW

The second EP from Los Angeles shoegaze band OSNOVA.

Formed in 2018 around guitarist Jean-Claude Vorgeack, the project later expanded into a trio with the addition of drummer Sam Ribeyro and vocalist Caroline McLaughlin. The release is characterized by a fusion of shoegaze and post-punk elements, where shimmering synth lines evoke aurora-like light, while bubbling, undulating bass and hazy, drifting guitars merge with crystalline vocals. Together, they create a weightless sense of motion—like drifting across a night sea under a sky filled with stars. Beneath this atmosphere, echoes of 4AD’s ethereal aesthetic remain clearly present.

A standout moment arrives with track #5 “Climbing Dues.” Post-punk propulsion and delicate, ethereal vocals are brought into balance, suggesting a convergence between Sisters of Mercy and Cocteau Twins. Within its dreamlike framework, the sense of uplift becomes more pronounced, positioning it as a clear highlight of the EP.

While shoegaze–goth crossovers often lean toward restraint due to their inherently decadent and introspective tone, OSNOVA distinguishes itself by retaining a strong sense of accessibility through hook-driven vocal lines, giving the material a distinct catchiness without diluting its atmosphere.

An accompanying compilation of early material, Early Singles, was also released in December. This collection leans more heavily into post-punk influences, with a stronger emphasis on rock-oriented momentum reminiscent of “Climbing Dues.”