Vacant Shores – “Vacant Shores”

Vacant Shores just put out their self-titled EP, and it’s been on repeat for me lately. The Bristol trio has really hit their stride with this one. Adding vocalist Suzy Alderton to the lineup was clearly the right move because her voice adds this haunting layer that wasn’t there before.

The EP has range “Flat Circle”, “Wasted Breath”, and “3 Fire Alarm” all do their own thing, but they work together as a complete listen, and you get these ambient sections that drift along, then suddenly you’re hit with a melody that sticks with you. The way the electronics and vocals play off each other creates this immersive atmosphere without getting too heavy-handed about it.

If you’re familiar with Moderat or Beach House, you’ll recognize some of that DNA here, but Vacant Shores have their own take on trip-pop. They manage to be both intimate and expansive at the same time, which isn’t easy to pull off. It’s clear they took their time with these songs instead of rushing anything out.

This EP is worth checking out if you’re after electronic music with actual depth. The band is gigging around Bristol and the South West right now, so give them a follow on social media to keep up with new releases coming in 2025.