Swiims Turn Back Time On Latest Single ‘All I Die For’

Since forming in 2018, the Toronto-based Swiims have gone from strength to strength, and with that they’ve earned themselves a nice little following. After the release of their debut EP ‘Through Waves’ in 2019, the band, fronted by Mai Diaz Logou and backed by Colin Thompson and Cian O’Ruanaidh, enjoyed critical success. Now, with their debut full-length album set for release on November 10^th, the band are back with the latest single ‘All I Die For’.

The track opens abruptly with sharp synths before it suddenly drops into a sound that those familiar with the band have come to love. It’s a steady drum beat and strumming guitar that evoke The Jesus and Mary Chain, whilst Mai’s subtle yet emotive vocal delivery is reminiscent of The Cocteau Twins. 

The sound of the song feels truly vintage, yet it’s the lyrics and their delivery that are the real standouts. The melancholic yet emotive way Mai is able to suggest “The magic is all I die for” over the sound of distant synths and reverbed guitars almost transports you back to the post-industrial heartlands of Northern England during the Thatcher years.

Swiims wear their inspirations on their sleeves, yet they never feel weighed down by them. They may be looking back over the pond to 80's new wave, yet they never seem to be distracted by what they see. It’s a fine line to tread, but the Toronto outfit do it perfectly. I can’t wait to hear what comes on November 10^th.

 

James Ogden 

Image: Christian Martius (@immartius)