EP Review
4 Stars Capturing the essence of early-2000s alternative radio.
Reviewer: Gemma Cockrell
Released: 25th April 2025
Label: Winspear
Recorded during the same sessions as last summer’s debut album ‘Triple Seven’, ‘Planet Popstar’ is a radiant EP infused with nostalgia that builds on Wishy’s blend of dream-pop, shoegaze, indie rock, and pop-punk, embracing a more polished sound while preserving their emotional resonance. The single ‘Fly’ sets the mood with Nina Pitchkites’ ethereal vocals layered over warm, reverb-soaked guitars. It reflects themes of presence, gratitude, and self-discovery, giving way to the motifs that run throughout the project. The title track evokes the vibe of early-2000s alternative radio, featuring Kevin Krauter’s soaring vocals complemented by heavy guitars and lush backing harmonies. Drawing inspiration from the imaginative world of Nintendo character Kirby, the song conveys a sense of childlike wonder and escapism. Additionally, ‘Over and Over’ is infused with a sense of melancholy, while ‘Chaser’ merges shoegaze elements with polished, radio-ready synths. The EP wraps up with the dreamy, percussion-driven ‘Portal’, seamlessly transitioning into ‘Slide’, a slow-building conclusion with sun-kissed chords that highlights the band’s ability to blend ethereal atmospherics with deeply personal lyrics. Released alongside a new vinyl edition of 2023’s ‘Paradise’ EP, ‘Planet Popstar’ represents both a continuation and an evolution of Wishy’s musical style. Nina and Kevin effectively complement and challenge each other’s vocals, effortlessly switching roles throughout the tracks. For enthusiasts of 90s indie, early-2000s emo, or modern dream pop, ‘Planet Popstar’ solidifies Wishy’s position as a captivating new voice in alternative rock.
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Drawing inspiration from Paul Simon’s intricate and enchanting disorder, Olive Klug’s “Train of Thought” offers a quirky, rapid journey into the essence of chaos, creativity, and self-identity. This exhilarating explosion of abstract lyrics and liberated self-expression showcases the singer/songwriter at their most playful and free-spirited, racing forward with enthusiasm toward their highly awaited second album, ‘Lost Dog.’
A lot to expand the audiences' expectations of the group.
Capturing the vibe of early 2000s alternative radio.