Release Date: 29th April 2026. Record Label: Self Released. Formats: DD
Sunspots - Tracklisting
Sunspots
Sunspots (Live Version)
Members
Steve Miller - bass, vox, synth
Alison Salutz - drums
Review
Psych/Sludge/Stoner Rockers Burning Sister return with this excellent new single Sunspots which sees the band transform their great style of “High Downer Rock” even further into the realm of Alt Rock and Shoegaze. This style of music was used heavily on their acclaimed last album “Ghosts” and Sunspots could have easily fitted anywhere within that record.
There’s a seedy and delicate level of intricate Fuzz, Sludge and Stoner Metal building up behind the scenes with Burning Sister using that Shoegaze element to great effect. There’s a great use of Atmospheric Rock, Drone and Psychedelic surroundings that builds into a more fluid style of Progressive melodies that Burning Sister overlaps with Fuzz and Doomed Out passages.
The added use of Post-Rock and Ambient Rock allows Burning Sister to experiment with different styles of Sonic Distortion with an aggressive Amplified Output being added behind the scenes .The vocals, bass and synths are provided by Steve Miller with Alison Salutz providing the drums that allows Burning Sister to be quite the formidable duo. The second half of the track is perhaps where the real magic happens as the band start playing a more riff-centric style of music that leaves you wanting more.
Burning Sister have added a “LIVE” version of Sunspots which is vastly different to the studio version. As this version is heavier, denser, thicker and way more psychedelic in the heaviest moments. There’s also a stripped back Post-Rock philosophy which allows the song to move into heavier waters. The vocals from Steve are more restrained with the music being the main focus here. Dare I say I prefer this version as it’s rawer, more experimental with a killer Droned Out sound that lasts the whole musical journey.
Sunspots is an excellent song from Burning Sister that once again sees them experiment and transform their music for the better. I’m hoping they’ll release more great songs such as this but I’m still a sucker for the music they created on their amazing 2022 album “Mile High Downer Rock” and this track does offer brief glimpses into that style of music. Though, Burning Sister prove once again why they’re one of the most versatile and creative bands around within the underground scene.
Words by Steve Howe
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