Acath is a shoegaze band based in Lafayette, Louisiana, that aims to evoke a dissociative and dreamy state through their music by using droning effects, light, airy vocals and non-uniform production techniques.
The original members of Acath met after a performance by lead vocalist Ryder. Following their encapsulating vocal performance, Ryder was prompted with requests to form a band, which they gladly accepted.
From there, members JC, Keegan and Peyton slowly joined, creating a fuller and more intricate sound for the band. Since then, the group has collaborated on music, played for charity benefits and opened for one of their greatest musical inspirations, Glixen.
Though Acath has played shows across Louisiana, they are relatively new to performing. The group’s first performance took place last March at Loose Caboose in Lafayette. Despite this, the band is connected by an underlying passion for communal outreach through sonic excellence, which creates a smoother and lax environment for audiences.
Acath takes inspiration from artists like My Bloody Valentine and Whirr, whom they credit with perpetuating traditional shoegaze. Acath hopes to follow in their footsteps by inducing a return to form in the shoegaze genre.
Shoegaze is a subgenre of alternative and indie rock that uses distortion, reverb and obscuring vocal effects as tools to portray moody, soft sounds. Acath’s sound is notable for the “dream-like” qualities it possesses. As JC describes it, their music is comforting and induces feelings of dissociation.
Live music is present, but fades like a memory. It can be equated to “looking back on an old family photo,” according to bass guitarist Keegan. The feelings are raw, irreplicable and fleeting, and the sweetness of the moment is secret.
Acath pulls in the intimate crowds in a seemingly hypnotic fashion. When they performed at KLSU and WSUB’s College Radio Day celebration, the entire audience sat in anticipation of the upcoming sounds. Through meticulously placed drum crashes, sirenic vocals and pulsing droned notes, the group fills space with energy that moves crowds.
Acath hopes to capture some of the intricacies of these calming but complex feelings in their upcoming album, “How long is forever?” The album is a multi-perspective project that hinges upon how true love can last a lifetime.
Some members interpret this as a romantic query, questioning how people measure love in relation to eternity. Other members see this theme as an infinity awaiting each person upon their death.
What happens when you exist outside of your body? Is your essence viable without a host? Grief is immeasurable, and being grieved is an experience usually reserved for those who have passed. When lovers curl in each other’s arms, when water evaporates to pour again, like how a fly is swatted and a roach is stomped on — how long is forever?
Set to debut later this year, Acath is excitedly awaiting the release of their new project.
To keep up with their progress, shows and announcements, follow them @acathband on Instagram.
