With their latest single, The Life That Could Be, released on March 7th, 2025, In The Afterglow cements its place as one of the most promising voices in modern dream pop and shoegaze. This shimmering track is a bittersweet reflection on paths not taken, weaving a nostalgic yet contemporary soundscape that will captivate fans of jangly indie-pop, ethereal harmonies, and introspective storytelling. Produced by British-Canadian music visionary Alfred Hermida, the song strikes a perfect balance between the melancholic haze of Phoebe Bridgers and the jangling brightness of C86 indie, creating an irresistible tapestry of sound.
From the opening chords, The Life That Could Be hooks the listener with its signature jangle-pop shimmer. The chiming guitars, reminiscent of genre staples like The Byrds and The Smiths, echo with nostalgia, while the song’s layered harmonies bring a contemporary edge. Fans of artists like Blushing, Launder, and The Beths will find comfort in the familiar sonic textures, but it’s Hermida’s unique ability to infuse wistful melancholy into the upbeat arrangement that makes the song truly special.
Lyrically, the song explores the theme of unrealized futures, a sentiment that resonates deeply in its gentle push and pull between hope and regret. Lines about “dreams deferred” and “paths not taken” are delivered with a vocal tenderness that complements the track’s wistful undertone. It’s a perfect blend of introspection and melody, inviting listeners to reflect on their own journeys while getting lost in the music’s dreamy atmosphere.
What sets In The Afterglow apart is their innovative fusion of traditional shoegaze aesthetics with cutting-edge AI technology. Using Udio Beta, Hermida creates soundscapes that feel both organic and otherworldly. The production on The Life That Could Be is lush and immersive, with reverb-drenched guitars cascading like waves over delicate harmonies. The track’s sonic layers feel almost infinite, as if each listen reveals new dimensions within the shimmering haze.
The influence of shoegaze pioneers like My Bloody Valentine and Slowdive is evident, but In The Afterglow pushes the genre forward by embracing modern tools and techniques. The result is a sound that feels timeless yet undeniably current—a rare feat in an era saturated with retro revivalism.
Initially available exclusively on Bandcamp for March’s Bandcamp Friday, The Life That Could Be reflects In The Afterglow’s commitment to the indie music community. For those who missed the Bandcamp release, the track’s arrival on streaming platforms on March 21st is a welcome event.
This release strategy not only highlights the band’s grassroots ethos but also underscores the anticipation surrounding their music. It’s a reminder that, in an industry often focused on instant gratification, patience and exclusivity can build meaningful connections with fans.
Though In The Afterglow only emerged in 2024, the project has already garnered significant acclaim within the global shoegaze community. With nominations like Radio Wigwam’s Best International Band and praise from outlets such as DKFM and Shoegazer Sanctuary Radio, Hermida’s work is resonating far and wide.
The Life That Could Be continues this upward trajectory, showcasing Hermida’s evolution as a songwriter and producer. It’s the kind of song that feels destined for late-night playlists and introspective moments, blending indie-pop familiarity with the fresh depth of a modern dream pop masterpiece.
If you’ve ever found solace in the bittersweet melodies of The Beths or been swept away by the lush textures of Slowdive, The Life That Could Be will feel like home. It’s a track that lingers long after it ends, its jangling guitars and melancholic lyrics echoing in the listener’s mind.
For In The Afterglow, this single isn’t just a song—it’s an invitation to dream, reflect, and imagine. Whether you’re new to the project or a devoted fan of Hermida’s work, The Life That Could Be is a must-listen that exemplifies the best of what modern jangle-pop and shoegaze have to offer.
With The Life That Could Be, In The Afterglow delivers a poignant, shimmering anthem that beautifully bridges nostalgia and innovation. It’s a testament to Alfred Hermida’s ability to craft music that feels both deeply personal and universally resonant. As the reverb fades and the guitars shimmer into silence, one thing becomes clear: In The Afterglow is a band destined to leave a lasting impression on the indie and dream pop landscapes.
For those yearning for a soundtrack to their introspective moments, The Life That Could Be is a gem worth treasuring. This is more than music—it’s a reminder of the beauty in life’s unrealized possibilities.
Connect with IN THE AFTERGLOW on
English