Album review: Seahaven – Seahaven

Six years is a long time to be away. Fortunately for Seahaven, 2020’s Halo Of Hurt became the kind of lockdown companion many people didn’t know they needed, quietly elevating the California quartet to a level of recognition they’d never quite reached before. Rather than simply revisit that formula, however, this self-titled return sees them shifting gears once again. They’re embracing a more indie-rock focused sound, with just enough shoegaze haze drifting through the edges to keep things interesting.

Opener Godsend eases listeners back into Seahaven’s world with chiming guitars and a warm sense of familiarity. It’s a less dramatic statement of intent and a gentler reintroduction, before Hellbound arrives with a little more urgency, pairing Kyle Soto’s introspective songwriting with melodies that linger long after the track fades out.

The album really finds its feet with February Flowers, one of its strongest moments. Built around shimmering guitars and understated emotion, it captures the sweet spot between the band’s emo roots and their newer indie-rock leanings. Remember Me follows a similar path, trading explosive catharsis for subtle reflection, while proving Seahaven remain masters of making melancholy feel oddly comforting.

Elsewhere, Million Ways injects some much-needed momentum into the middle stretch, its driving rhythm and soaring chorus providing one of the album’s most immediate hooks. Tidal Wave then washes over everything with layers of textured guitars and thumping drums, to give the record a real sense of urgency.

The closing duo is where Seahaven save some of their best work, though. Wedding Bells, carries a sense of emotional clarity that cuts through the record’s hazier moments, before Companion provides a fitting send-off with it’s pulsating tones. Patient and reflective, it feels like the end of a long conversation with an old friend.

Seahaven doesn’t hit quite as hard as Halo Of Hurt, but it doesn’t need to. It’s a mature, well-rounded collection that sees the band continuing to evolve rather than stand still. Sometimes that’s more than enough.

Verdict: 3/5

For Fans Of: Citizen, Balance And Composure, Turnover

Seahaven is out now via Pure Noise