Indie-pop duo Dolores Forever, comprised of Hannah Wilson and Julia Fabrin, unveil their debut album It’s Nothing, a title inspired by a line from their track “Go Fast Go Slow.” As Wilson explains, “Usually, when somebody says ‘oh, it’s nothing,’ it actually means it’s really something. That’s sort of a theme across this record.” This sentiment underscores the album’s introspective dive into themes of fear, identity, and the complexities of love, all delivered through a lush sonic palette blending alt-pop and indie influences.
It’s Nothing offers a mesmerizing fusion of sound, evoking artists like Sharon Van Etten, Mitski, and Haim, with sprinkles of René Rapp’s punchy edge. The album is not just a pop venture—it’s a statement. As the duo reflects, it’s a “punchy indie-pop record about feminism, friendship, and navigating a messed-up world.” Wilson and Fabrin challenge the music industry’s obsession with youth, pointing out how their experiences in their thirties have deepened their stories and voices.
Across the album’s 10 tracks, It’s Nothing brims with standout moments. “Not Now Kids” is a funky, infectious number, drawing on Michael Jackson’s groove and the quirky energy of the B-52’s, layered over a vibrant disco beat. “Someday Best” shimmers with alt-pop brightness, tinged with new wave influences, while its harmonies glisten with iridescent allure.
“Split Lip” showcases the duo’s softer side, opening with delicate pop textures and rich, honeyed vocals. The song swells into a robust melody, its emotional depth growing as the track unfolds. “Go Fast Go Slow,” with its dark, electro-pop edge, captivates as the harmonics ascend into glittering layers, a highlight of the record’s more introspective moments.
Retro influences shine on “Rotten Peaches,” which bounces with an effervescent, ‘80s-inspired rhythm, while “Grace” is a buoyant gem, its tinny harmonics and shifting dynamics delivering a range of emotions—from pensive reflection to radiant joy. Meanwhile, “Why Are You Not Scared Yet” throbs with intensity, its foreboding tones balanced by a bright backing vocal that poses the titular question, delivering one of the album’s most gripping performances.
Ultimately, It’s Nothing is a richly textured album, balancing plush vocals with a dynamic mix of alt-pop, disco beats, and electro-pop flair. It’s a compelling introduction to Dolores Forever, brimming with authenticity and sonic allure, marking their debut as both an artistic statement and a captivating listen.
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