Belfast-based shoegaze risers Virgins return with their intoxicating new single, ‘blooms’ (out today via Blowtorch Records). Following the success of their critically acclaimed debut album Nothing Hurt and Everything Was Beautiful, the single continues to showcase the bands rich shoegaze aesthetic with a darker edge.
Produced by Simon Francis (The Japanese House, Kylie Minogue, Ellie Goulding) and mastered by Slowdive’s Simon Scott, ‘blooms’ is a cinematic swirl of reverb-drenched guitars, tight drums, grounding bass, and cascading fuzz, culminating in a cathartic explosion of sound. Shimmering verses build into swirling choruses as siren-like vocals soar above the intricate, reverb drenched guitar lines to create a hypnotic blend of light and shade, bringing both a driving sense of energy and a warming, emotive atmosphere.
Speaking on the track, songwriter and guitarist Michael describes blooms as: “The band redefining our sound while delving to new emotional depths. A sonic exploration of tension and release, accented by reverse delays and glide guitar. Lyrically, it’s explores themes of reflection and self-confidence..”
Virgins have rapidly emerged as one of Ireland’s most promising alternative acts. Their 2022 EP Transmit a Little Heaven sold out its vinyl pressing, while their debut album Nothing Hurt and Everything Was Beautiful received widespread praise from major press and radio, cementing the band as ones to watch. Known for their immersive and dynamic live performances, Virgins have sold out headline shows at GazeFest, performed at Stendhal Festival and Other Voices Wales, and opened for the likes of Bleach Lab, BDRMM, New Pagans, and Sign Crushes Motorist across the UK and Ireland.
With an Ireland and the UK tour beginning soon, Virgins have a big few months ahead.
Check out the full list of tour dats and listen to the new single below:
April 10th – Belfast, The Empire
May 1st – Galway, West x Sound West Blowtorch Records Showcase
May 2nd – Limerick, Pharmacia
May 3rd – Dublin, Soundhouse
May 9th – Dundalk, Spirit Store
August 29th – Dublin, GazeFest (supporting Whitelands)
August 30th – Belfast, GazeFest (supporting Whitelands)
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