The Veldt – Angel Heart – Skylight Webzine

The Veldt, renowned pioneers of soul-infused shoegaze, grace us with their latest single “Angel Heart,” offering a glimpse into the past with this preview of their forthcoming album, ‘Illuminated 1989.’ This album, showcasing the original 1989 Robin Guthrie-produced recordings that were initially intended as their debut full-length but shelved by Capitol Records, is a nostalgic treasure trove for fans and a revelation for newcomers. “Angel Heart” immediately immerses the listener in the dreamy and ethereal world that The Veldt is celebrated for. Influenced by the iconic 4AD Records scene and reminiscent of bands like Cocteau Twins, the track captivates with its soulful shoegaze sound. The dream pop elements are vividly present, creating an atmospheric and romantic backdrop that transports the audience to a realm of introspection and reverie. The use of reverb effects on the guitars contributes to the song’s lush sonic landscape. The ethereal quality of the instrumentation is like a sonic reverie, encouraging the listener to cast their gaze upward, lost in a dreamscape. The homage to the Cocteau Twins is evident, and The Veldt seamlessly weaves their influences into a composition that is both timeless and contemporary. Danny Chavis, in interpreting “Angel Heart,” provides a poetic insight into the song’s emotional depth. He describes it as the “stellar sound” that accompanies the experience of witnessing the universe expand. The juxtaposition of hopelessness and melancholy, coupled with a meandering feeling that lifts and brings you down, resonates with the human experience, particularly as we navigate the complexities of aging. Chavis beautifully captures the essence of the track, emphasizing that even in moments of solitude, there exists a profound connection to the universal ebb and flow of emotions—a sentiment that is expertly translated into the musical fabric of “Angel Heart.” In essence, “Angel Heart” by The Veldt is a sonic journey that transcends time and space. Its dreamy, atmospheric allure, coupled with the soulful shoegaze aesthetic, creates a listening experience that is both immersive and emotionally resonant. The track not only pays homage to the band’s influences but also asserts their continued relevance in the ever-evolving landscape of alternative music.