From the crucible of pandemic lockdowns emerged a musical gem that is capturing the imagination of listeners and critics alike. Galaxy Shores, the brainchild of Los Angeles-based producer and multi-instrumentalist Josh Herren, is a project that intricately weaves together the ethereal sounds of psychedelic rock with the infectious hooks of pop.
The inception of Galaxy Shores was deeply intertwined with the uncertainties and introspections of the pandemic era. Herren, like many artists, found himself with ample time and an urgent need for creative expression. With no prior experience in music production, he embarked on a self-guided journey through YouTube tutorials, learning the nuances of Ableton and mastering various instruments. This period of intense self-education and experimentation bore fruit in January 2022 with the release of Galaxy Shores’ self-titled debut EP. The EP served as a promising introduction to Herren’s lush, atmospheric soundscapes.
Buoyed by the EP’s initial success, Herren plunged deeper into his craft, dedicating himself to refining his sound through drum and production lessons. Driven by a desire to forge a distinct sonic identity, Herren’s efforts culminated in the release of Galaxy Shores’ first full-length LP, Plastique River.
Released to critical acclaim, Plastique River, is more than just an album—it is a sonic journey through the mind of a dreamer grappling with grand ambitions and stark realities. Laden with phased-out guitars, analogue synths, vintage drums, and Herren’s signature psychedelic production, the album immerses listeners in a haze of aspiration and reflection. Each track serves as a sonic journal entry, chronicling Herren’s experiences as he navigates the spectrum of pursuing dreams—from the exhilarating thrill of new beginnings to the bittersweet realization of disillusionment.
Herren’s approach to, Plastique River, transforms the album into a cinematic experience. Each song is crafted as a scene in a larger narrative, pulling listeners deeper into the world Herren has meticulously created. The album’s themes resonate with profound personal reflections, exploring the complexities of growing up, the excitement and disillusionment of chasing childhood dreams, the intricacies of love, and the challenges of self-discovery.
Psychedelic music, for Herren, transcends genre—it is a lens through which he views the world. His passion for the genre is evident throughout *Plastique River*, which marries vintage and modern elements to create a sound that feels both timeless and fresh. The album stands as a testament to the transformative power of music, offering a deeply emotional and cinematic experience for both the creator and the listener.
As Galaxy Shores continues to make waves in the psychedelic rock/pop landscape, Josh Herren remains committed to pushing the boundaries of his craft. With a relentless pursuit of new sounds and ideas, Herren aims to create music that resonates on a deeply emotional level. With, Plastique River, Galaxy Shores has firmly established itself as a unique voice in the musical world, marking the beginning of an exciting and evolving journey.
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