Dream pop outfit Still Ruins was formed in 2020 by Frankie Soto, Jose Medina, and Cyrus VandenBerghe in Oakland, California, with a gorgeous sophisti-pop sound akin to China Crisis, Choir Boy, Spandau Ballet, and early Tears For Fears.
In their debut release, “Perfect Blue,” the band unfurls a refined and urbane soundscape, marked by its engaging melodies, seamless rhythms, and evocative lyrical themes. The track is imbued with a rich arrangement and delivered with a fluid, heartfelt vocal style. This composition stands out for its cultivated flair, resonant emotional undertones, and an air of contemplative grace.
The accompanying music video, crafted by Eli Wengrin, captures a sense of wistful yearning, underscoring the profound bonds of friendship. It presents the band in a series of charming, low-fidelity scenes set against an urban skyline, imbuing the work with a nostalgic quality. These peaceful vignettes are skillfully interspersed with imagery of the natural world, including serene waters and verdant forest edges, enhancing the video’s reflective and contemplative tone.
Watch the video for “Perfect Blue” below:
Perfect Blue comes off of Still Ruins’ upcoming self-titled debut EP, set for release on January 12th, 2024. The EP will be available on vinyl through Oakland DIY/punk label Smoking Room, and on cassette via Chicago’s Cercle Social Records, headed by Soft Kill frontman Tobias Grave.
The single and EP have been mixed by Chris King of Moon Palace Productions, known for his guitar work with Cold Showers and his production and mixing skills with artists like Fearing, Topographies, Tamaryn, House of Harm, and Death Bells. The mastering of both the single and EP was done by Jack Shirley at the Atomic Garden Recording Studios.
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