LAPêCHE - "Mermaid Blues"

Brooklyn’s Lapeche has always been skilled at cultivating more distinct influences when compared to their peers. I’ve always appreciated their reverence for the melodic, guitar-driven post-hardcore of the 1990s - the kind that can be found in the more obscure corners of the lengthy Dischord Records discography. Jawbox is a clear influence (J. Robbins did produce their first two full-lengths, 2017’s The Second Arrow and 2021’s Blood In The Water), but those with a keen ear will also recognize the sounds of lesser known, but just as solid, emo-adjacents like Mock Orange, Shiner, and Braid. Come to think of it, J. Robbins was involved with releases from two out of three of those bands… but I’ll let you do your own internet sleuthing to figure out which ones. 

Anyway, there are enough Joy Division and Gang of Four worshippers amongst the current crop of New York acts, so it’s refreshing to hear a band creating their own distinct sound with a different set of reference points from within the broader indie rock universe. They continue to hit on all cylinders with their latest single “Mermaid Blues,” mixing their infectious melodies, ear-wormy guitar playing, energetic rhythms, and well-crafted lyrics for a satisfying and engaging indie-punk romp

“Mermaid Blues” is another stellar track that sees the band bringing some modern sensibilities to the guitar sounds of decades past. It’s an example of their bread and butter, as the song revolves around a hook-y chord progression that takes multiple forms and unbridled energy that’ll translate well to the live setting. Frontperson Krista Diem's lyrics are pure poetry, and they shouldn’t be overlooked. She beautifully meshes fantasy with reality, using metaphor and vivid imagery to capture the weight of seasonal changes: “Summer came and let the light in. Now it’s done. We shed our coats. We watch the fickle moon bloom.” 

Stream “Mermaid Blues” below! 

You can also purchase the track on Bandcamp or listen to it on your streaming platform of choice. Keep up with LAPêCHE by liking them on Facebook and following them on Instagram.

LAPêCHE will be performing on the rooftop of Our Wicked Lady this Thursday, August 4th with Freezing Cold, Miracle Sweepstakes, and Rigby Picnic. Get your tickets here. The band will also be performing at Pet Shop in Jersey City on August 18th with Two-Man Giant Squid and High. .