22 Songs That Keep Slow Crush Sane

The Belgian shoegaze ensemble shares a playlist of tracks that inspire them ahead of the release of their new LP “Hush.”
Playlist
22 Songs That Keep Slow Crush Sane

The Belgian shoegaze ensemble shares a playlist of tracks that inspire them ahead of the release of their new LP “Hush.”

Words: Mike LeSuer

photo by Kat De Laet

October 21, 2021

Back in 2018, Belgian shoegazers Slow Crush released their debut album Aurora which, between its impressive fusion of tough post-rock and gossamer dream pop and the group’s ceaseless touring behind the record, launched them to renown within various circles of music that their own output dips into. In fact the unexpected downtime the pandemic provided them with in lieu of a hectic touring schedule is perhaps the main reason we’re even getting a follow-up to that LP so soon, with Hush slated for release tomorrow. Despite capturing a rocky period for the band between the universal upheaval of quarantine, shuffling of band members, and seeking out a new label, their second album only improves upon the rich textures of their debut, expanding their punkier sound into something heavier, more contemplative, and, consequently, more at home within the discography of their new label home of Church Road Records.

Ahead of that record’s release, we asked the band to throw together a playlist reflecting what songs have provided the glue to hold together both their music and their lives outside of music, with peers like Amenra, Lantlôs, Oathbreaker, and Alcest sharing the track list with both heavier influences—such as the doom metal of Pallbearer—and pop-leaning escapism from M83. “This is an eclectic bunch of tracks that have moved us over the years,” vocalist Isa Holliday shares. “Whether by initially inspiring us to pick up an instrument, relaxing with a coffee in the sun, or keeping us sane (and awake) during late-night drives on tour, there’s something for every mood in here.”

Hear the full playlist below, and pre-order the album via their site here.