SG62: Coward Syndrome - Coward Syndrome [LP]

Coward Syndrome is a dream pop/synthwave duo from Paris, France. Their excellent debut EP, POCHETTE II, released through Spirit Goth’s net label BIRTHDIY back in 2021, can be thought of as the precursor to their self-titled debut LP, released in 2023 after signing to Spirit Goth Records.

Known for their mesmerizing guitars and ethereal, time-stretched drums, Coward Syndrome’s evocative sound is at once grounded and atmospheric; overall, there’s a stream-of-consciousness to their compositions that leans fully into the inherent nostalgia of the genre.

Opener “Mithridates VI” eases the listener into this nostalgic expanse, oering a cyclical beat that you can’t help but move along to, while “Shades and “Hikikomori” showcase their more experimental side. The album also shows o their thoughtful, dynamic approach to composition; for instance, the stunning track “Itches” comes with a shorter, instrumental “dawn” version, bringing out its murky darkness. Ultimately, Coward Syndrome’s approach is focused and direct, possessing both light and shadow in equal amounts.