STREAMER’s latest single, Festival, is an electrifying foray into the vast emotional and spiritual potential of music, cementing their burgeoning reputation as pioneers of a genre they call indie trance. The track is a celebration of unity, joy, and the transcendence found in collective musical experiences. Yet, like much of STREAMER’s work, it carries a subtle critique beneath its euphoric veneer.
From the opening moments, Festival envelops us in a pulsating, transcendental EDM energy. Ethereal ad-libs weave through an intricate tapestry of sound, grounding the track in a spiritual nuance that sets it apart from traditional festival anthems. STREAMER deftly balances the cosmic build, a slow, deliberate ascent that feels as if it’s reaching toward the heavens, with an explosive dance-pop drop. This dynamic interplay mirrors the highs and lows of human connection, creating a soundscape that feels both intimate and universal.
Festival is undeniably crafted with live audiences in mind. Its sing-along chorus beckons to throngs of festival-goers, promising an experience of communal catharsis. The Europop-adjacent dance energy is infectious, conjuring visions of Tomorrowland’s electrified crowds or the sunlit euphoria of Coachella. But STREAMER doesn’t stop at delivering a feel-good anthem. Lyrics like “Welcome to the sideshow” hint at a darker undertone, a commentary on the growing commodification of live music and the dominant role of DJs in the festival circuit. This line positions STREAMER as both participants in and critics of the festival culture, acknowledging the magic while questioning its shifting priorities.
STREAMER’s strength lies in their ability to create a sound that is as complex as it is accessible. Comprising Tom (vocals, guitars, keys), Jez (bass, BVs, keys), and Tom’s son Freddie (drums and percussion), the band epitomizes a cross-generational approach to music-making. Their blend of seasoned musicianship and youthful energy results in a unique synergy. The rich layering of organic instrumentation, searing guitar riffs, pulsating basslines, and textured vocals, merges seamlessly with state-of-the-art electronic production.
The track’s finale, marked by a crescendo of vocals and a blistering guitar solo, serves as a reminder of STREAMER’s live prowess. Tom’s use of the Paul Reed Smith Custom 24, coupled with the band’s meticulous integration of Roland e-drums, Ableton Push, and orchestral arrangements, showcases their commitment to innovation. Every element feels deliberate, contributing to a soundscape that bridges rock’s visceral energy with trance’s hypnotic allure.
By blending the organic intensity of rock instrumentation with the expansive, rhythmic precision of trance and electronica, STREAMER’s self-coined genre of indie trance feels refreshingly original. Festival captures the genre’s essence, a sonic journey that is both deeply introspective and ecstatically outward-facing. The band’s commitment to keeping live music at the forefront shines through, making their critique of DJ-dominated festival lineups all the more poignant.
STREAMER’s live performances, honed over years of playing to large audiences, are reportedly transformative. The synergy of Tom, Jez, and Freddie is palpable, their passion resonating with audiences of all ages. With tracks like Festival already well-tested on the live circuit, STREAMER is poised to redefine festival music for a generation seeking connection, depth, and transcendence.
We have added the opus to our New Music Spotlight playlist, as well as our TRIPPY and TIMELESS playlists, whilst we continue to explore STREAMER’s wider discography, including Possessify, Time Flies By, and New Best Friend!