Hamburg-based project Baydream unveils a lushly magnetic sound across their new EP, Tragic Magic, blending dreamy indie pop, ethereal synths, and hypnotic vocal layers. Fusing elements of dream pop, indie rock, electronica, and subtle post-punk flourishes, the EP immerses with a shimmering, atmospheric pull.
“Insomnia” commences the EP with intoxicating blissfulness, melding wordless vocal caressing with dreamy guitar trickling and steady, subdued rhythms. The eventual culmination of intertwining vocal layers continues the hypnotic sense, fondly reminiscent of The Radio Dept. in its textural evolution — and especially memorable as the brisker rhythmic elements hit around the two-minute mark. The ensuing “A Rose from the Dead” exudes a smitten state lyrically — “the love that we had, keeps running through my head” — as a spacey synth pad infuses within comforting bass bounces. Its consistent tonal disposition and woozy vocal tone makes for a warming, introspective atmospheric charmer.
Further tranquility is accomplished on “Hollywood,” where gentle guitar twangs and starry-eyed keys maneuver with anesthetic allure. “Loot All” follows by continuing that glimmering soundscape, though with a more range-spanning vocal push and panting rhythmic presence that enthralls in its bouts of infectiousness; the title-bearing sequence is especially memorable in the vocals’ added fervency. EP finale “Islands” finds a middle ground between serene atmospheric construction and catchy intrigue, exuding a hazy vocal presence and colorful keys as head-nodding rhythms persist cohesively. Tragic Magic is a delight of an EP from Baydream, excelling with an array of satiating, dreamy pop worlds.
