Swansea Mass

"Silver Venus" (Loud Devices)

By Karen Choy
Published: April 11th, 2004 | 11:27am

Chicagoans' debut single is a shoegazer delight.

Hyde Park, a lovely neighborhood on Chicago's South Side, is home to a bustling indie-rock community. Hyde Park musicians are notoriously passionate and proactive, and the Swansea Mass is no exception. Formed in 2002, the rock band started as a collaboration between two University of Chicago students, singer/guitarist Jeff Rufo and drummer Emma Bryant. Anne Stevens soon joined on bass, and lead guitarist Pavan Singh recently came on board as lead guitarist.

The band's debut, the "Silver Venus" 7", is wonderful. Side A, "Silver Venus," is the type of song that's the perfect backdrop for an idyllic make-out session. Reminiscent of My Bloody Valentine, the song's lush shoegazer sound is dreamy and perfectly executed. Side B's song, "Chessy," is a very appealing and rousing rock song that once again demonstrates how well the band plays together. The single's lavishly illustrated silver sleeve is also a treat.