Both Timeles and Boldly New: Foreign Shapes – ‘Sleazy Jet’ Review

Words: Isobel Waugh

Foreign Shapes are a London-based alt-rock trio who draw inspiration from the indie, post-punk and alt music of the 90s and 00s. This nostalgia shines brightly through the first of three new singles, ‘Sleazy Jet’. 

With a soft, melodic opening, the listener is engaged immediately as the track takes a heartfelt tone. This is complemented by thoughtful vocals which draw the listener in, yearning for more. The importance of creative lyricism is not lost on Foreign Shapes either as they paint passionate and detailed images effortlessly. For example, using the metaphor of a marooned sailor watching a plane overhead, the song captures perfectly the tidal nature of change. 

The slow beginning bristles with intimacy before bursting into a powerful chorus, and then exploding into a cathartic guitar solo, elevating the track substantially and seamlessly bringing together its emotional worlds. Foreign Shapes build their track gradually, making for a satisfying and enjoyable listen. The ‘Sleazy Jet’ of the title has no clear destination, representing a universal feeling of uncertainty many of us will be able to relate to.

Ultimately, ‘Sleazy Jet’ is a genre-defying exploration of the duality of nostalgia, as both the hopeful escape of better times and the immobilising trap of longing. Foreign Shapes have somehow created a track that feels both timeless and boldly new, and I, for one, cannot wait to see what comes next.