fxrrvst, pronounced as ‘forest,’ is a queer alternative indie duo based in Toronto, Canada, formed by musicians Holly and Matt. Passionate about the planet and making a positive impact on the world, their thoughtful approach and support for activist organisations even translates to the eco-friendly merchandise that they mostly make themselves.
First making their entrance in 2017 with their debut single “Tidal Wave,” they quickly followed up with their first record, May XXVI. Going on to share a string of singles and EPs, the band has won over fans and tastemakers alike while clocking over a million and a half streams, securing extensive radio support all over the world.
Earning recognition for their output, they’ve been nominated for a Toronto Independent Music Award and brought their music alive on stage with performances at festivals such as NXNE, CMW, Riverfest Elora and Indie Week as well as playing alongside the likes of Tiny Moving Parts, Foxing, Hotel Mira, Monowhales and Banners among others. Taking a hiatus since the release of their last EP, Dear Friend, Pt. 2, in 2021, fxrrvst now make their emphatic return with new material, sharing their latest single titled “Lavender.”
The highly anticipated single was self produced by the pair for the first time while still capturing the emo-inflected indie rock sound that’s defined their musical vision. Written about themes of abuse and the traumatic experiences that go with it, “Lavender” was a difficult yet cathartic song for the duo to compose with Holly’s emotionally-charged vocals and poignant lyricism delivering a thoughtful and authentic recount of her own experiences.
Setting an uptempo energy from the very start, the track jumps with bright guitar flutters and the lively shuffle of drums before settling into the verse where elegant vocals spin delicate melodies above the bouncy rhythm of the arrangement. Deftly balancing the energising sound of the instrumentation with the melancholic and sobering context of the lyrics, “Lavender” sees fxrrvst distil their meaningful songwriting in a catchy and engaging way.
Maintaining the punchy charge in the percussion while the vocals rise with bursts of belted delivery as slick electric guitar flourishes colour the track with vibrant sonic hues, the track builds to an anthemic alternative-tinged sound to craft a song that’s at once moving and exhilarating. Making their return to releasing music in spectacular fashion, “Lavender” opens a new chapter in the compelling and worthwhile musical story that fxrrvst continue to write.
Listen to Lavender below
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