Gentle Heat - "Total Orbit"

Yesterday, Chicago’s Gentle Heat announced the forthcoming release of their long-awaited second album, Sheer. They also shared the album’s gorgeous lead single, “Total Orbit,” which showcases their ever-evolving, genre-bending style, which seamlessly melds shoegaze, post-punk, and a particularly melodic brand of indie rock. It’s their first new music since prior to the pandemic, and it’ll definitely leave you very curious to hear what’s next.

“Total Orbit” hinges on its driving guitars, which are infectious, especially when paired with vocalist Sarah Clausen’s angelic, twee-like singing. On this track, the band’s sound incorporates elements of several distinct Glaswegian bands - think My Bloody Valentine, The Pastels, and The Jesus And Mary Chain all rolled into one. Guitarist/vocalist David Algrim described “Total Orbit” as one of “the most guitar-oriented, shoegaze-y tracks we have.” and shared that the lyrics center on his “love for being in a space that is quiet, secluded, and unswayed by what’s going on outside.”

Stream the track below

Sheer is set for release on May 13th via Flesh & Bone Records. You can pre-order it via the label’s website or Bandcamp. Keep up with Gentle Heat by following them on Instagram.