Darkswoon - Bind

Darkswoon's 2019 debut full-length Bind marks a significant evolution in the Portland band's sound, transitioning from Jana Cushman's solo endeavor into a dynamic trio with Rachel Ellis on synths and Norah Lynn on bass. Released through Icy Cold Records, Bind melds electronic shoegaze with post-punk and darkwave influences, drawing comparisons to acts like The Knife, Austra, and early Eurythmics. The album's eight tracks, including "Red Ferrari," "Human Faults," and the nine-minute closer "Love Is a Warm Dark Cave," showcase a range of moods and styles yet maintain a cohesive and uniquely Darkswoon(ian) voice. Critics have praised the album's blend of mechanical precision in synths and drum grooves with ethereal vocals and ambient guitar lines, noting its suitability for both introspective listening and the dance floor. Bind stands as a compelling entry into the modern darkwave and shoegaze landscape, offering a rich, atmospheric experience for listeners.