A subtle yet captivating comeback...
12 · 09 · 2025
The Melbourne/Naarm trio Acopia stands out in today’s growing scene of modern, anxiety-laden guitar bands that draw from classic shoegaze. The group skillfully navigates the delicate balance between emotional depth and sonic restraint. On their third album, ‘Blush Response’, they explore vulnerability while enhancing their diverse sound.
The opening track ‘Talk About It’ captures the trio’s dreamy essence perfectly. With reverb reminiscent of Cocteau Twins, the song’s carefully crafted outro features vocalist Kate Durman’s soft mantra (“What’s in your head?”), seamlessly transitioning into the hazy soundscapes of the subsequent track, ‘See You In Everyone’.
While the album predominantly reflects melancholy, its moments of quiet intensity add intrigue. ‘Falter’ introduces a jolt with bolder guitar riffs and assertive lyrics, yet still maintains an intentional restraint, showcasing Acopia’s ability to blend fragility with strength throughout their music. ‘Falling’ features finely layered drums influenced by classic house music, leading into ‘Real Life’, which brings the sound forward to the late 00s with its looping motif and a hint of The xx in Durman’s entrancing, Romy-like vocals addressing obsessive love and emotional exhaustion: “Wasting my days / Watch it grow old / Back to default”.
The album concludes with the downtempo tracks ‘Chase Me’ and ‘Last Word’, the former venturing into slowcore, while the latter’s straightforward yet effective bassline provides a solid foundation for Durman’s vocals to effortlessly float above.
The Melbourne trio is undoubtedly honing their artistry with each release. It would have been nice to hear one or two more tracks. However, with their recent signing and their association with boundary-pushing artists at Scenic Route Records (Nourished By Time, thredd, Black Fondu), this will enhance the band’s cool factor, potentially opening up new musical avenues for exploration.
What lies ahead is uncertain – the band’s forthcoming live shows in the UK this September will likely provide the best insight. Meanwhile, ‘Blush Response’ illustrates Acopia’s continued refinement of their understated sound in approximately 25 minutes of mesmerizing atmospherics.
7/10
Words: Jamie Wilde
—
Join us on WeAre8 to delve into global cultural events. Follow Clash Magazine HERE as we navigate through clubs, concerts, interviews, and photo shoots. Get exclusive backstage access and a glimpse into our world as the excitement unfolds.
Sign up for the Clash mailing list to receive the latest updates on music, fashion, and film.
Paloma León has launched her highly awaited album, ‘Piano Music for Movies.’ This project, more than ten years in the making, presents a modern interpretation of
Paul Archer has made a comeback with his new single, ‘Fear Destroyer’. This song represents a significant turning point for the straightforward rocker as he prepares for his
Today, Rachel Chinouriri has released her latest single, ‘What A Life’. Produced by apob, this new track builds upon the themes of her ‘The Little House’ EP that was released in
In a different realm, TWICE’s Chaeyoung reigns as the indie pop princess, fully taking over the underground scene. Commanding the stage with a distinctive sound and
The London-based footwear brand Lili Curia has introduced its first collection this week, accompanied by a whimsical campaign featuring Tali Lennox. This launch marks the
The Copenhagen duo Snuggle has released their new album 'Goodbyehouse' in its entirety. This album marks their first collaboration with the Danish label Escho and features the duo, Andrea Thuesen.
The trio Acopia from Melbourne/Naarm stands out from the current wave of guitar bands that blend classical shoegaze with themes of modern anxiety.