The music genre “90s Shoegaze” is a specific subgenre of alternative rock that emerged within the late 1980s that gained its popularity around and throughout the 90s era.
The genre involved dreamy and ethereal soundscapes that featured meticulously layered guitars alongside a heavy use of effects pedals, layered vocals, aiming to create a chilled atmospheric and immersive experience for its audience. Iconic examples of Shoegaze bands would include My Bloody Valentine and Slowdive.
Last Tourist showcases the talents of John Wellby (guitarist/vocals), Nick Noble (guitarist/vocals), Adam Simpson (synth and programming), Jason Booth (bass guitar and bass synth) and Ethan Rudd (drums). The darkwave electronic shoegaze five-piece, fueled by their passion for iconic bands such as Joy Division, Interpol, and Mary Chain, have crafted distinctive and alluring sounds that captivate listeners. The haunting synth melodies and potent bass lines compliment together in a seamless motion with a wash of reverb guitar, allowing an atmospheric sonic landscape to be created. Moody vocals go hand-in-hand perfectly with the rhythmic danceable drums that transport their audience into a world of emotion and artistic expression.
The band’s dedication towards their craft and love for the genre has allowed them to forge their own authentic path within the music scene, and on the way capturing the hearts of fans and critics alike.
On the 27th of May 2023, Hyde Park Book Club was taken over by an electrifying hub of music, energy and a whollleee ‘lotta nostalgia. The air was thick with anticipation as DJ sets filled the room, and individuals mingled and sipped their beverages, all whilst eagerly awaiting the arrival of the much-anticipated darkwave electronic shoegaze four-piece band, as well as other bands performing.
As the vibrant lights danced and blended across the walls and ceiling, the atmosphere reached a maximum fever pitch, and when Last Tourist stepped onto the stage, the venue erupted in a frenzy of applause and excitement. As they effortlessly wove through their set, alongside photographer Mark Wheelwright capturing dazzling stills throughout their performance, the room was engulfed in a wave of ‘90s shoegaze, the pulsating drums synchronising with the heartbeats of the music-lovers present (including mine!).
The melodies and captivating soundscapes washed over the captivated crowd, generating a pure and truly unforgettable experience that left everybody yearning for more as the set drew to a solid close.
