Shoegaze continues to have a bonafide moment, being embraced by both a new generation of teenagers and older folks who were around for its rise in the ’90s, which has pushed the genre to new, unexpected heights. Wishy, a five-piece band from Indianapolis, made their foray into the genre with a pair of mesmeric EPs, 2023’s Mana and Paradise. The full-length follow-up, Triple Seven, which arrived last month via Winspear, widens the scope, fusing strains of power pop, indie, and shoegaze as the band contend with the uncertainty of opening your heart. It’s a gratifying listen — and a powerful debut from a band who reference alternative greats (The Sundays, My Bloody Valentine) from varying eras while unmistakably treading their own ground. Soaring hooks run up against fuzzy rushes of noise and jangly guitar, creating an immersion that’s impressive, invigorating, and enduring all at once.
Read more: Fan poll: 5 best shoegaze bands of all time
Following the album’s release, Wishy’s Kevin Krauter and Nina Pitchkites told us about their favorite cover songs. Dive in below.
Sublime – “Scarlet Begonias” (The Grateful Dead)
So first of all, anything with the “Funky Drummer” sample is a hit. This cover just works so well — perfect groove, perfect vocal delivery, perfect synthesis of both bands’ vibes. I had heard this song before but have been obsessed ever since our friend Nate Kahn put it on in the van driving to the beach on our day off on tour earlier this year. —Kevin Krauter
Saint Etienne – “Only Love Can Break Your Heart” (Neil Young)
Another groovy track with a perfect backbeat. When I first heard this cover, I honestly wasn’t that into it ’cause I just love the original so much, but then after a second listen, it hit me like, “No, this track really bangs.” I love when a group uses the pretense of “covering a song” to create a totally unique vibe from something familiar. —Kevin Krauter
Rose McDowall – “Don’t Fear The Reaper” (Blue Öyster Cult)
This is just a really fun one. Her vocal delivery is so blunt and confident. The Van Halen guitar lick going straight into the Latin classical guitar moment. Just incredibly cheeky and lovable at every turn. —Kevin Krauter
Tiffany – “I Think We’re Alone Now” (Tommy James and the Shondells)
I didn’t realize this was a cover until not that long ago when I heard the original version on the radio. Both versions are great, but I think this song was truly meant to be an ’80s pop anthem. I’m also just now watching this video for the first time, and it’s so cute… so much innocence, from the homemade movie quality to her queening out at malls with an inflatable Gumby figurine. —Nina Pitchkites
The Sundays – “Wild Horses” (The Rolling Stones)
What can really be said about this track other than just, like, pure perfection. I mean, yeah shocker another song by the Sundays that we love. But this track is really extra special. Harriet’s vocal delivery is actually a transcending experience. Such a simple song, but she’s able to take it to a level that pulls at something very deep and mysterious and beautiful. You just feel every single lyric. I’m lowkey about to cry listening to it while I type this. —Kevin Krauter
