I Wasn't Born to Lose You

Editors’ Notes The shoegaze genre was never particularly popular in the U.S. during its heyday in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. It had its hardcore fans, like most underground/alternative subgenres, but nothing compared to its success in the U.K. or its eventual influence on bands in the 21st century. Swervedriver were somewhat overlooked compared to their contemporaries like My Bloody Valentine, Slowdive, and Ride, but that oversight may now be corrected with their first album in 17 years. Here, songform takes precedence over pure sound. “Setting Sun” and “Everso” reveal strong, accessible pop hooks, while “Autodidact” and “For a Day Like Tomorrow” re-establish their mastery of layered sounds and harmonies. Welcome back!