Coming out of Auckland’s indie scene, newcomers Echomatica have been quick to make an impression with their compelling sound that stands at the crossroads between dream pop, indietronica and cinematic alternative rock. The four-piece, featuring the talents of vocalist Charlie Maclean, AJ on guitars and programming, guitarist Matt Chong and bassist Scott Samson, craft immersive tracks that balance retro-futurist nostalgia with modern emotional context.
Influences are wide-ranging, stretching from the post punk textures of Joy Division and Siouxsie & The Banshees through to the expansive, synth-driven atmospheres of M83. But while traces of those inspirations can be heard, Echomatica shape them into something entirely their own and by fusing shoegaze guitars with bittersweet lyricism and layers of warm synths, they tap into a retro ambiance that’s started to win over fans around the world.
It’s an offering that extends to their live presence, where Echomatica have earned a reputation onstage as an act capable of delivering immersive, highly engaging performances. With their material based in emotional impact, their shows become all about atmosphere, drawing audiences into carefully forged worlds where sound and feeling become inseparable.
This summer marked their official arrival, with debut single “Love Isn’t Always” firmly placing them on the map of must watch new acts in the indie sphere. The track broke into the 95bFM Top 10 and earned radio play across New Zealand as well as in Australia, the USA, Germany, France, Belgium and the UK.
Now, ahead of their self-titled debut album set for release next month, Echomatica return with their sophomore single titled “Something.” The new song sees the band shift towards brightness without losing their atmospher aestheitc, serving up a breezy cut that shimmers with intricate guitars and hazy synth textures, creating a soundscape that feels at once weightless and emotionally charged. Thematically, “Something” turns its focus to the search for connection, that elusive spark we pursue through relationships, memories and art itself, framing the tension between yearning and uncertainty.
Opened by the soft plucks and bright strums of guitar, the arrangement bursts with the gentle punch of drums and airy synth tones, forming an uplifting sound before simmering down to make way for Charlie’s hushed vocal leads. Casting a dreamy sound of delicate instrumentation, tender melodies and heartfelt lyrics, it’s a charming jam that’s catchy and meaningful in equal measure.
Capturing a sound that deftly balance vintage synth pop feel with forward-facing indie vibes, “Something” delivers an atmospheric and truly delightful listening experience from start to finish. As they go from strength to strength with their second original single, they’re sure to dazzle countless listeners with their forthcoming Echomatica record next month.
Commenting on the single, vocalist Charlie shares, “Something was one of those tunes that started simply, as fragments toyed with on an acoustic guitar. The song flowed easily from there, and came to reflect ideas of reaching for meaning when everything feels uncertain, and how even in silence and hesitation there’s often the joy and wonder of discovery and an electric potential in what’s left unspoken.”
Listen to Something below
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