Othering drops debut album ‘Uptakes’

Since forming in 2021, Dallas-based duo Othering have forged a sound that rises up from the shadows; part shoegaze haze, part post punk punch and wrapped in a darkwave fabric that pulses through every track. Led by singer, guitarist and producer Bryan Y and driven by drummer Isai B, the project began as a solo venture but quickly developed into a collaborative act once the pair began performing live in 2022. The chemistry was instant and so was their impact on the Texas alternative scene.

Their debut EP Cheap Nights landed in June 2023, capturing the grit and beauty of late-night existentialism with a lo-fi charm that made an impact through smoky venues and underground playlists alike. A summer run of Texas shows helped establish their status as an exciting new project, building a reputation for moody, immersive performances that balance reflective writing with sonic intensity.

2024 saw Othering step firmly into their stride, dropping a trio of singles that expanded their sound further, including a collaboration with fellow Arlington-based darkwave act Sucio. The two outfits linked up for a regional tour last July, blending their overlapping aesthetics into a live experience charged with tension, texture and atmosphere.

Now, Othering return with Uptakes, their most expansive and ambitious project to date. The debut full-length album captures a year and a half of growth, experimentation and exploration, both sonically and emotionally. Built on rhythmic basslines and powerful drums, the record brings together washed-out guitars, layered synths and Bryan Y’s airy, understated vocal delivery.

Kicked off by the lively crunch of a rattling beat on “Excess Self,” the pulse of fuzzy bass synth is met by spacey vocal leads as the arrangement builds with swelling intensity. Dashed with jarring synth elements and belted vocals filtered through warbling processing, it’s an energising jam that perfectly captures Othering’s fiercely unique sound and raucous sonic vision.

The steady groove of smooth bass shots and ominous drift of deep texture on “Teaser Void” follows as the shuffle of drums and moody vocals cast an engrossing outing that’s at once danceable and brooding. Casting a dark atmosphere that flows with reverb-drenched synths and snapping beats, it’s a stunning showcase of the band’s gripping musical output, presenting a catchy and engaging soundscape from start to finish.

“Half Eyes” follows with the drill of rolling drums and harsh synth textures capped by smokey vocals to deliver an immersive cut brimming with stuttered rhythms and angsty punk aesthetic. Other highlights on the record include songs like “Best Intentions” which leans into the band’s new wave influences with a smooth sound of drifting guitar plucks, airy atmosphere, shuffling drums and delicate vocal performance.

With “It Could’ve Been Easy,” Othering lays down a melancholic track that progresses with crisp percussion, impassioned vocals and hazy arrangement, crafting an emotive and instanty memorable sound. Closing the record with “What You Want,” the pulse of bass guitar sets up an elegant arrangement of jangly guitar notes, intricately tapped drums and compelling vocal leads to craft a bright and subtly upbeat finale to the band’s sensational debut album.

Listen to Uptakes below