By Joe Vickrey
A recent listen through Indigo Waves’ debut album reminded me just how fresh the duo sounds. Though their debut released in 2021, the nostalgia drenched collection could still proudly top any record stores “Fresh Picks” shelf without a single crate digger batting an eye. Their sophomore effort, Mirror, does so much more than simply expand on the merits of their debut. Rather than just a mere reflection of themselves, Indigo Waves created a psychedelic portal into their paradoxical world.
From the opening notes of “Vision” everything feels bolder here. “Vision” is a monster of a hook for an intro laced with falsetto vocals, flanged acoustic guitars, and a fat synth bass in the choruses. It’s one of those songs I wished would never end. The uptempo energy of the track was infectious and quickly landed a slot on my “Biggest Bops of 2025” playlist. From what I hear, it’s been a fan favorite from the early listeners too.
The overarching theme of Mirror is reminiscing. The focus on both pains and joys of relationships that blossomed and withered makes for an encompassing listen. The aptly named “Reflections” really drives the point home as it repeatedly begs with the phrase, “Look at your life, reflection’s not looking right.”
I’ve always felt that synth-driven and electronic-based music sounds best on summer nights, and ironically, “Daylight” is no exception for me. Each saturated drum sample and all the movement from note to note in its thumping bassline vividly paints the image of driving through the countryside with the windows down on a warm evening.
The textures that make up this album feel very carefully curated. In a time when tape-distortion and warble are all the craze, each instrument feels like it was transferred off an old cassette. Not in a lazy way by any means, but each element has its own unique degradation and lo-fi charm that feels like home for me. Something about broken-sounding guitars and dying synths perfectly underscore the delicate sentiments in lyrics like “Would you promise me the evening?” from “Home.” It adds a level of sincerity I might not feel from crystal-clear hi-fi productions.
Even the acoustic guitar on the album’s sweetest ballad, “IBWUFY” sounds like it was recorded on a pawn shop cassette player — in a good way. Showcasing the more intimate side of Indigo Waves, the track feels like an indie kid lullaby. Moments like these are where the group shine show just how much they’ve grown since their debut.
Chill vibe seekers, look no further. Mirror could very well be your album of the year. From big dance energy to droning vocal echoes, Indigo Waves have carved themselves out a unique niche in the industry. There’s enough substance here to rope in rock, indie, and psych fans. Indigo Waves are so appealing I bet they could even get a thumbs up from that really picky friend you have who claims to listen to everything besides screamo and country. They’re just that good.
Be sure to follow Indigo Waves on Instagram and check out “Vision” below!