Artist: Balue
Album: Quiet Dreamer
Released in June 2014, Quiet Dreamer is the bedroom project of American singer-songwriter Eli Thomas, who is better known by his one-man-band stage name, Balue. Hailing from New Mexico, Thomas’ music gives off a very distinct feel that incorporates liberal amounts of sunbathed nostalgia and hazy daydreamer vibes felt throughout the duration of the album.
Quiet Dreamer fits in with the chillwave movement, although, it is notably more guitar driven as opposed to the usual synth. Thomas has described his flavour of sound as being “chilled out, lo-fi bedroom tunes” best heard through headphones, although tracks like “Man in the Sixties” and “Charming Flow”—which radiate upbeat beach pop vibes through catchy hooks, punchy guitars, and strung out vocals—would sound just as good blasting through a car stereo.
If you’re looking for a summertime road trip soundtrack, Balue’s Quiet Dreamer is well worth the listen.