Termination Dust - Familiar Eyes

Termination Dust

Familiar Eyes
self-released; 2016

​4.0 out of 5

By Ted Rogen

Termination Dust comprised of Stefanie Vigoren (guitar/vocals), Jaybird Parkhurst (guitar/omnichord/vocals), Jacob Dee (bass) and ChubbZ (drums) are from Anchorage, Alaska. I have to admit I don’t know many bands to come out of Anchorage. In fact by quickly scanning my memory bank this might the first. Hopefully Anchorage has more acts this good coming my way.

On their release Familiar Eyes the band plays summertime indie pop songs that are downright addictive. The most obvious comparison to me was Dum Dum Girls and it's not just because of the lead singer. Familiar Eyes is a lo-fi effort and it works well for the most part. I thought more pristine, refined production would have worked better at times but the bright yet dirty shoegaze aesthetics were also fitting.

It only takes one listen to have your ears wanting more. I knew I was in for a treat within a minute of the opener “Clutter.” The song is good, unpretentious fun made for doing a little joy riding. “Clutter” has a chorus that is pure indie goodness. You will fall in love instantly.

“Sleep” is another great song overall. The guitars are soaked in reverb, you get some whistling there and undeniably attractive vocals. “Boy” not only contains influence from indie bands but also seems to tip the hat to ’50s pop. “Summer Crushed” may in fact be the perfect summer song. Those handclaps did me in .

The band continues to deliver with “Proximity,” the fuzz driven “Summit Lake” and another ’50s inspired tune called “Funeral Bells.” 

Termination Dust has enough talent to be a successful indie band. I like the production on Familiar Eyes but I would love to hear what it would sound like if they can get it a bit closer to the production value on End of Daze by Dum Dum Girls. Those subtle differences could end up making a difference. Either way this band is one to look out for. They got the goods and I  wouldn't be surprised to hear a lot more of them real soon.

Become A Fan

Tweet