Stelth Ulvang and The Tigernips - “Dissolve”
Photo by Rachel Deeb
California-based Stelth Ulvang and The Tigernips have just released the indie rock single, “Dissolve.”
“Dissolve” has that delightful, vintage feel to it, as if it is a lost record from the late 1960s or early 1970s. The track shuffles along with an indie-rock grittiness that is reminiscent of The Velvet Underground. The drums push the song forward with a steady beat that focuses on the groove, rather than cluttering it with complexity. Similarly, the bass focuses on the groove with a John Cale-like, thick, melodic pulse underneath.
Enhancing “Dissolve“ are traditional electric guitar tones that become more texturally vibrant and gritty as the track progresses. Initially, the playing is subtle, strengthening the sense of swagger before more distorted tones seep in with staccato grooves and swells of restrained howls. The piano also beautifully adds to the complexity with staccato pulses and weaving, bright notes.
As the track rises into the crescendo, these elements become more intense and have the slight feeling of being deliciously chaotic, which makes for an exhilarating end that leaves you wanting more. The expressive vocal performance has a pleasingly casual– almost conversational– delivery with a slight hint of raspiness. It weaves through the track with a beautiful sense of flow and phrasing. Over the crescendo, the performance lifts in intensity and drives home the emotional intensity of the track.
On the track, Stelth Ulvang adds: “‘Dissolve‘ is a visceral journey through the late-night mental crumblings of summer, capturing the essence of spontaneity and sincerity. It’s messy and sweaty and delaminated and dilapidated, just like the tape hiss echoing within earshot. Dissolve is my favourite rock tune I’ve made to date, all thanks to this one hell of a band, the Tigernips.”