New album: The Laughing Chimes || Whispers in the Speech Machine

Gothic echoes of decay wrapped in bright, Paisley-tinged sounds

Exactly four years after their year-end list-worthy debut LP In This Town was presented, Ohio’s Seurkamp brothers release their sophomore album, beautifully titled Whispers in the Speech Machine. They have not only gained in age and experience, but also drawn inspiration from the ghost towns in the foothills of Appalachia—reflected in vocals with eloquence and a prominent role for synths casting Gothic echoes, and powerfully depicted in the cover photo. The eight songs here sound more mature in every way, and are also richer in texture, requiring multiple listens to fully embrace, especially given the fascinating tension breathing between bright guitar jangles and dark romanticism. Shadows of abandoned houses and influences from the Paisley Underground are captured by a youthful spirit that is still fearless and inspired, leading to melodies that dance between memory and mystery. For me, the middle section is the strongest, with tracks like Cats Go Car Watching, A Promise to Keep and High Beams that get under your skin, but I wouldn’t be surprised if the other tunes gain in impact as they go along. This is serious business, which has rightly found a warm home at Slumberland.



Whispers in the Speech Machine is out now digitally, on cassette and vinyl LP, through Slumberland Records. Featuring Evan Seurkamp (guitar, vocals), Quinn Seurkamp (drums), Avery Bookman (bass) and Ella Franks (guitar, keys).

Add to wantlist: Bandcamp || Discogs || Slumberland

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