We had a chat with Basel-based indie rock outfit Moonpools following the release of the first single from their upcoming second EP Damaged Goods
With the release of their 2019 EP Turbulent Times, Switzerland-based indie pop quintet Moonpools established their wonderfully charming sound, littered with quirky little fun sonic moments and brimming with unique personality and charisma.
Fast forward to 2022 and the outfit are gearing up to release its follow up, Damaged Goods, and have provided us with a rousing new single of the same name. The new track is cut from the same cloth as what came before it but represent a development in their sound, taking on a more full-on indie rock approach, washed over with punchy, melodic guitars and colourful synths. The track is the ushering in of a new era for the hotly-tipped outfit, and we had a chat with them to find out some more about their journey so far and the new release.
Who TF are Moonpools?
We’re a five piece Indie Rock/ Dream Pop band from Basel, Switzerland.
How long have you been making music?
Jasper, Francesco and I formed Moonpools back in 2016 and were joined by David and Matthias in 2017. But I’ve been writing songs since I was thirteen. Most of us played in other bands before Moonpools (and still do).
Why do you make music?
I suppose it’s a form of release, and a way to process my experiences and feelings, good and bad. And it’s a lot of fun.
What are your biggest influences?
I’m inspired by my friends and family who I love and admire. When it comes to writing songs I also find inspiration in the seemingly small things, like the first flowers of spring or cute dogs I meet in the street. And artists who’ve greatly inspired me and our upcoming releases are Hatchie, Snail Mail, Cocteau Twins and Soccer Mommy to name a few.
What would you say has been your best moment so far?
Hard to pick one. We’ve played some nice shows and met lovely people along the way. I remember hearing our first single ‘Brainbug’ on the radio shortly after it came out. I was in a bar playing pool with friends celebrating someone’s birthday and we started dancing around and singing along. That was very sweet.
How would you describe your sound to somebody unfamiliar with it?
Anthemic synths meet rousing guitars, carried by solid basslines and drumbeats, and accompanied by honest and at times melodramatic lyrics. Dreamy yet driven, soft yet strong.
What’s your dream “I’ve made it” moment?
I’ve actually dreamt about playing support shows for bands I love but in my dreams I always end up messing up big time, so I’m hesitant to say it. But it would be lovely to play a support show for an idol of ours.
We love your new single ‘Damaged Goods’, what more can you tell us about it?
I wrote it a few years back when I was unsure of what on earth I was doing with my life (though not much has changed). Just feeling lost and a bit useless, that’s how I ended up with the title. Musically it was a turning point for us as a band, our first song that guided us more towards Indie Rock. We also have a music video for the song, all DIY: https://youtu.be/ycyghkN7tgY
What else do you have planned for the near future?
We’re releasing a few more songs over the course of the summer and an EP mid-August. We’ve also got a few shows lined up that we’re really looking forward to.
And finally, who is your biggest fan right now?
Probably my and Jaspers mum.
