Ever found yourself mesmerized by the lush, dreamy sounds of a shoegaze track? Those swirling guitars and ethereal vocals can transport you to another dimension. But have you ever wondered why this genre is called “shoegaze”? Well, grab your favourite effects pedal and let’s dive into this world, where looking down at your shoes is not only acceptable, it’s pretty much the point! So why is Shoegaze called Shoegaze?
What is Shoegaze?
First things first, for those who might be new to the term: it’s a subgenre of indie and alternative rock that emerged in the late ’80s and early ’90s. Bands like My Bloody Valentine, Slowdive, and Ride are the pioneers who crafted this otherworldly sound (PS the latest Slowdive album, ‘Everything is Alive’, is a great one if you love the genre). The genre is characterized by its heavy use of reverb, delay, and other effects that create a “wall of sound,” with vocals often blending into the mix like another instrument rather than standing out in front.
Eyes Down, Pedals On!
So why the quirky name? Picture this: It’s the late ‘80s, you’re at a small gig in a dimly lit club, and on stage is a band creating this massive, immersive soundscape. But instead of rock star antics and wild stage moves, the guitarists are intently staring down at their feet. Why? Because down there lies the heart and soul of shoegaze: the effects pedals.
These guitarists are known for their extensive use of effects pedals to craft their signature sounds. From lush reverbs to swirling delays and everything in between, these pedals are their secret. And with so many pedals to tweak and stomp on, the guitarists spend a lot of time looking down at their pedalboards, hence the term “shoegaze.” It’s a name that we think, lovingly, pokes fun at their absorbed, introspective performance style.
The Pedal Playground
Let’s talk pedals! If you’re looking to dive into the sound, here are a few essential pedals you’ll want to get cozy with:
- Reverb: To create those cavernous, dreamy soundscapes. Think of it as the sonic equivalent of swimming in a vast, echoing ocean.
- Delay: For those mesmerizing repeats and echoes that can make a simple riff sound like it’s cascading through time.
- Chorus: Adds a shimmering, multi-dimensional quality to your guitar tone, making it sound like there are multiple guitars playing in unison.
- Distortion/Fuzz: To add grit and texture, perfect for those powerful, soaring climaxes in your songs.
Tips for Shoegaze Beginners
- Layer Your Sounds: Don’t be afraid to stack multiple effects. Shoegaze is all about creating a thick, immersive soundscape, so experiment with combining pedals, even 2 reverbs for examples.
- Volume Swells: Use a volume pedal or your guitar’s volume knob to create smooth, swelling sounds that add to the dreamy atmosphere.
- Experiment: There are no rules here. Play around with different pedal settings and combinations to find your unique sound.
Embrace the Gaze
So, there you have it! The next time you’re jamming out with your pedalboard, take a moment to appreciate the shoegaze pioneers who made staring at your shoes the coolest move in rock (maybe). Whether you’re creating your own dreamy soundscapes or just exploring new effects, remember that the magic of shoegaze lies in those little boxes at your feet.
Ready to build your ultimate shoegaze pedalboard? Check out our online store for the latest and greatest in effects pedals. And hey, don’t forget to look up every once in a while – the audience wants to see that you’re having fun too!