San Francisco’s pop/rock collective The Y Axes – comprised of Alexi Belchere (vocals), Devin Nelson (guitar/vocals), Nick Schneider (drums), and Jack Sundquist (bass) – has always claimed that they are “pop music from the future.” They’ve held that claim quite close to their hearts, while prepping for the release of their new album Umbra. We’ve got the premiere of the title track right here.
A light, upbeat melody graces your ears, as it gradually transitions into a more dense and layered track. Belchere’s gorgeous, ethereal vocals come in at an octave we’re not sure is human. The way she holds notes out at length induces daydreams, which can be dangerous on a Monday morning in the office. We’re very big fans of the way that this track brings more discussion of mental health to the forefront, with lyrics that go into the intensity of the feelings associated with depression.
Belchere had quite a bit to say about the track.
Unlike previous releases, where I would often hide behind an analogous fiction to express an idea, with Umbra as a whole, I’ve become more comfortable being upfront about the personal element in the songs. “Umbra” the song is about struggling with depression, and about trying to bear some of that overwhelming sadness for the people you love. The lyrics weave back and forth from living with that sadness to supporting someone who is suffering– so you experience the feeling of helplessness on both sides. The ending, an almost chant-like verse that repeats and reworks lines from the chorus, demonstrates the kind of spiraling trains of thought that feel almost like a graceful anxiety attack.
Umbra is out November 26th. It is available for preorder now.
