Swiss Pleasure’s debut EP “Heliotropia“, feels like stepping into an intricately woven sonic tapestry. The Berlin-based trio—Agathe, Alea, and Claire—deliver a four-track collection that defies simple categorization, blending dream pop’s delicacy with post-punk’s edge and a dash of jazz-inspired intricacy. The result is a record as thoughtful as it is bold, offering listeners a rare mix of introspection and experimentation.
The EP opens with “Heliotropia” a meditative track that embodies Swiss Pleasure’s artistic ethos. Atmospheric soundscapes, layered harmonies, and subtle callbacks to earlier themes create an introspective beginning that draws listeners into the band’s immersive world.
“2009” follows a tense yet melodic piece that captures the restless energy of self-reflection. Alea’s vocals command attention with their urgency, while Claire’s spectral harmonies create a duality that feels both haunting and grounding. The instrumentation is a tightly wound blend of raw guitars, driving bass, and urgent drumming, culminating in an anthem for anyone grappling with inner contradictions.
“Charcoal” takes a different route, offering a brighter, more buoyant sound. The interplay between guitar and bass creates a danceable rhythm, but the lyrics cut deeper, reflecting on disillusionment and bittersweet memories. There’s a subtle charm here, a track that invites you to sway while pondering its deeper emotional core.
The EP concludes with “Orange Moon“, the band’s most poignant and thought-provoking piece. Its understated arrangement belies the weight of its themes, touching on the devastation wrought by humanity’s darker impulses. Alea’s saxophone interlude adds an emotional gravity, punctuating the track with a call to action that feels as urgent as it is mournful.
What makes “Heliotropia” stand out is its balance of cohesion and surprise. Swiss Pleasure doesn’t rely on any one sound or formula; instead, they embrace the full spectrum of their influences and channel them into something wholly original. The production, both warm and detailed, gives the EP a timeless quality that enhances its emotional resonance.
“Heliotropia” is more than just an introduction to Swiss Pleasure—it’s a declaration of their intent to push boundaries while remaining deeply personal. This EP is not merely a listen; it’s an experience, one that establishes Swiss Pleasure as a vital voice in the indie music landscape. Keep them on your radar—this is only the beginning. Stay connected with Swiss Pleasure on their social media platforms for updates on their future releases: Facebook – Instagram – TikTok – Spotify – YouTube.
