Mall Goth "Marionette"

Sounds from the USA

26/08/2025 |

Mall Goth, the Albany, NY-based band, returns with their evocative new single “Marionette,” a 4’10” dream-laden journey that blends the hazy textures of shoegaze with the melodic jangle of indie rock. On this track, the genre’s signature wall of sound is softened into a more relaxed and introspective dynamic. Minimalist verses unfold with delicate guitar arrangements, marked by a distinctive, warm tone, while Ella Kasper’s sweet and expressive vocals take center stage, guiding listeners through a soundscape that feels both intimate and expansive. Falling under the umbrella of dream pop, indie rock, and jangle rock, “Marionette” exemplifies the band’s ability to balance emotional depth with sonic subtlety, creating a floating, psychedelic atmosphere that lingers long after the final note.

“Marionette” is part of Mall Goth’s second EP, Heather’s Exit, released on August 8th via Tummy Rub Records. The EP traces a narrative arc from youthful coming-of-age experiences to the darker edges of obsession, gradually descending from bright, jangly pop into a dreamy, introspective haze. Recorded in their hometown, the project was produced and mixed by Conor Grocki, mastered by Scoops Dardaris, and features evocative artwork by Eliza Whalen. With contributions from a tight-knit ensemble—Peter Lukach and Sam Meyer on guitars, Thomas Finney on percussion and piano, and layered backup vocals by Val Lasser and Finney—the band solidifies its identity as a defining voice in Upstate New York’s indie scene. Fans of Wednesday, Alvvays, Sonic Youth, and the Pixies will find much to admire in Mall Goth’s nuanced blend of nostalgia, texture, and emotional resonance.