San Diego-based rock trio The Slashes effortlessly blend elements of post-punk, goth, and '80s infused new wave for a unique and enthralling sound. Their single "Valentine Slip" is the first of the year from this prolific band who has been releasing music since 2015.
In "Valentine Slip", the band examines how complex our inner nature can be. No one is all good or all bad and The Slashes explore this juxtaposition and how self acceptance is ultimately the way to awakening. Esteben of the trio confides, the track is "about accepting our true nature, the duality of the good and bad in this character, with one side winning eventually and giving in to his true self." With lyrics including "you are ready, I'm not steady", The Slashes further discusses how important it is to truly know and understand yourself before entering into a romantic relationship. With fuzzy reverb-drenched guitars hanging over baritone vocals full of introspection and emotion, "Valentine Slip" is a shoegaze-filled song with a nod to 80's British rock.
The Slashes are Esteban Rene (vocals/guitar), Beto Bautista (bass), and Carlos Robles (drums). The LatinX band coin themselves as "border goth" as they reside in San Diego close to the Mexican and U.S. border. The trio have attracted attention from industry veterans including producers and frequent collaborators Alan Sanderson (Fiona Apple, The Rolling Stones) and Ben Moore (Switchfoot).
Take a listen to "Valentine Slip" now and remember self realization is the key to happiness.
