One of our favourites, Parisian-based SCHØØL are back with a new, more reflective single ‘Gardener’ as they announce their debut album ‘I think my life has been ok’ through Géographie Records, set for release on 5 September 2025.
‘Gardener’ has a simple dappled guitar base with the distant, observant vocals augmented by a delicious harmony. According the the band, the song is about first love:
…it’s a song about teenage first loves that explores the fragility of time, fading memories, and the difficulty of letting go. The gardener holds on, still watering the soil even when it feels dry and the weather uncertain.
The lyrics are infused with a nostalgic romanticism:
These words she said are flashing in my head
I do remember how I adore her
At least I see the end of the story
Do you remember?
We do live forever
There is an aching beauty to the delivery with SCHØØL’s trademark deadpan expression and a shoegaze fuzz. The track comes with an mesmerising visualiser from band member Erica Ashleson:
One thing is certain: nothing satisfies me like they do. ‘Gardener is out now and available to download and stream here.
The much anticipated debut ‘I think my life has been ok’ is scheduled for release on 5 September.
The band’s debut single N.S.M.L.Y.D. (reviewed by me here) was a stunning introduction to the Paris-based band with members from as far afield as France, Australia and the US.
The band adroitly channels bands like Fontaines D.C. and Horsegirl – a genetic code taken directly from The Velvet Underground and distilled with a little My Bloody Valentine and The Jesus and Mary Chain, cloaked in a louche insouciance, a rough and tumble exterior and sweet melodies.
SCHØØL was formed in Paris in fall 2023 led by Francis Mallari (Rendez-Vous) with Erica Ashleson (Special Friend, Dog Park) on bass, Jack Moase (Liquid Face) on guitar and Alex Battez (Marble Arch) on drums.
