B-Side Guys

The Bay Area indie rock scene is about to be graced with a new offering from In-Sides, a band known for their introspective lyrics and dreamy, psych-pop-infused sound. Their upcoming EP, “Salvo,” set for release on June 12, 2024, is a product of the pandemic era, crafted from demos accumulated during the long months of lockdown and isolation.

Recorded and produced by Maryam Qudus at Tiny Telephone and Brothers Chinese Recording in Oakland in 2022, “Salvo” marks a significant milestone for the band. The six-track EP is a concise yet lush collection, blending elements of dream pop and grunge, with ethereal and distorted guitars weaving through doubled choruses. The result is a sound that is both pensive and powerful, inviting listeners to dive deep into their own introspection.

The themes explored in “Salvo” are a reflection of the times in which it was created. Songwriter Stephen Fong grappled with depression during the latter stages of the lockdowns, questioning when he would be able to play live music again. This sense of uncertainty and longing is palpable throughout the EP, with lyrics that touch on alienation, screen addiction, and narcissism.

The first single, “Mud,” serves as an open letter to narcissists, with Fong delivering a list of grievances over a backdrop of shimmering guitars and gentle vocals. It’s a testament to In-Sides’ skill as musicians that they can make even the most biting lyrics feel soft and inviting.

“Old Soul,” the second single released on May 15, 2024, delves into the topic of self-imposed alienation. It’s a theme that is sure to resonate with listeners who have struggled with feelings of isolation and disconnection, particularly during the pandemic. The track showcases In-Sides’ ability to create lush, layered soundscapes that envelop the listener, creating a sense of intimacy even as the lyrics speak to a sense of distance.

The final single, “TV Brain,” scheduled for release on May 29, 2024, tackles the anxiety-ridden feedback loop that comes from screen addiction. It’s a timely subject in an age where our lives are increasingly mediated through digital screens, and the track’s driving rhythm and urgent vocals capture the sense of unease and disorientation that can come from spending too much time in virtual worlds.

Beyond the singles, “Salvo” promises to be a rich and varied listening experience. From the tender melodies of “Step” to the climactic washes of guitar in “Taking It In,” the EP showcases the full range of In-Sides’ musical and emotional palette. The closing track, “Divine,” is a particularly stunning piece, with Fong’s soft-spoken vocals floating over a sea of shimmering instrumentation, creating a sense of transcendence and hope even in the face of life’s struggles.

For fans of In-Sides, “Salvo” is a welcome return after the long months of pandemic-induced isolation. The band has always been known for their introspective lyrics and dreamy sound, but there is a new depth and intensity to the music on this EP, born out of the unique challenges and uncertainties of the past few years.

The band is set to support the release of “Salvo” with more singles in the pipeline and live shows across the greater Bay Area. It’s a fitting setting for a band that has always been more interested in creating intimate, introspective experiences than in chasing the spotlight.

Ultimately, “Salvo” is a testament to the power of music to help us make sense of even the most challenging times. Through their lush soundscapes, introspective lyrics, and gentle yet powerful vocals, In-Sides have created a work of art that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant. It’s an EP that invites listeners to take a journey inward, to confront their own struggles and uncertainties, and to emerge with a renewed sense of hope and connection.

As we all continue to navigate the aftermath of the pandemic and the ongoing challenges of our world, “Salvo” serves as a reminder of the vital role that art and music can play in our lives. It’s a beacon of light in dark times, a hand reaching out to remind us that we are not alone, even in our most isolated moments. With this stunning new EP, In-Sides have once again proven themselves to be one of the Bay Area’s most vital and compelling indie rock bands, and “Salvo” is sure to be a highlight of the musical landscape in 2024.