Gunk Pop is revolutionizing the Seattle music scene, and Black Ends is leading the charge. With their debut album “Psychotic Spew,” they’ve secured the top spot in the Seattle Times’ annual critics music poll for 2024. This coveted poll gathers input from local music writers, DJs, and playlist curators, offering a snapshot of the best albums shaping Seattle’s vibrant music landscape.
Key Highlights from the Seattle Times’ Critics Music Poll 2024
- Black Ends – “Psychotic Spew” Leading the pack is Black Ends with their genre-defying debut album. Described as a groundbreaking blend of grunge-punk influences and Nicolle Swims’ signature guitar work, “Psychotic Spew” encapsulates a sound they’ve dubbed “gunk pop.” This fresh and innovative style channels raw emotion and tuneful malaise, deeply connecting with local fans and a growing global audience. Learn more about Nicolle Swims and the band’s journey on Pitchfork.
- somesurprises – “Perseids” Coming in second is the dream pop band somesurprises with their sophomore album, “Perseids.” Known for its gauzy textures and immersive soundscapes, this album balances soothing melodies and a darker, introspective vibe. Discover more about somesurprises on Bandcamp.
- TeZATalks – “Black Girl American Horror Story” The third spot goes to TeZATalks for their genre-blurring masterpiece. Combining aggressive beats with melodic ballads, this album showcases TeZATalks’ artistic range and tackles themes of identity and resilience with striking originality. Explore more about TeZATalks on TeZATalks Official Website.
What Is “Gunk Pop”?
Black Ends’ self-coined genre, “gunk pop,” redefines Seattle’s indie music scene. This unique style fuses punk and alternative rock with an emotional depth that reflects themes of queer love, mental health, and societal pressures. Nicolle Swims, the creative force behind the band, brings unparalleled authenticity to their music, resonating with fans across diverse backgrounds. Read more about the evolution of Seattle music on KUOW.
Black Ends: A Rising Star in Seattle’s Music Scene
With “Psychotic Spew,” Black Ends has firmly established itself as a trailblazer in Seattle’s indie music renaissance. Their innovative sound evokes the city’s rich musical history while carving out a fresh identity for a new generation of listeners. Critics and fans alike are celebrating the band’s ability to push boundaries and deliver deeply relatable art.
The Seattle Music Scene in 2024
Seattle’s music scene continues to thrive, with artists like Black Ends, somesurprises, and TeZATalks leading the charge. These musicians are not only creating compelling music but also contributing to the city’s reputation as a hub for innovation and creativity in the indie music world. For a deeper dive into Seattle’s indie resurgence, visit Seattle Times Music Section.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Seattle’s grunge roots or exploring its modern indie offerings, albums like “Psychotic Spew” are must-listens, reflecting the evolving pulse of this iconic music city.