Toronto-based band SWiiMS continues to captivate audiences with their latest music video, “Fade Days,” a visual narrative rich with themes of love and loss. Directed by bassist and vocalist Cian O’Ruanaidh, the video beautifully captures the nocturnal allure of Toronto, weaving a story that resonates deeply with the band’s growing fanbase.
SWiiMS consists of Mai Diaz Langou (vocals/guitar), Colin Thompson (guitar/vocals), and Cian O’Ruanaidh (bass/vocals), who came together with a shared passion for creating authentic music. Their journey began in the summer before the COVID-19 pandemic, when Mai and Colin met through a Craigslist ad in the musician’s wanted section. This serendipitous meeting sparked a fusion of creative ideas, culminating in their debut EP, “Through Waves,” which explores the essence of contemporary life. The addition of Cian to the lineup solidified their sound, leading to critical acclaim and radio play, as “Through Waves” charted on the North American College and Community (NACC) charts.
The pandemic brought unforeseen challenges but also fueled SWiiMS’ creative drive. During this period, they channeled their energies into writing songs for their forthcoming LP, “Into the Blue Night.” Drawing inspiration from 80s New Wave, 90s Indie Rock, BritPop, Shoegaze, and Dream Pop, the band explores themes of falling in love, navigating relationship struggles, and coping with grief and loss. These themes reflect the tumultuous experiences of many during the pandemic’s waves and shutdowns.
Recorded and mixed over 2022 and 2023, the album represents a natural evolution from their debut EP, enhancing their distinct sound and symbolizing a journey from darkness into light. The project benefited from the expertise of Toronto-based producer and engineer Josh Korody, adding a fresh sonic layer, while mastering was completed by Noah Mintz at Lacquer Channel in Toronto.
The single “All I Die For” serves as a focal point of “Into the Blue Night,” delving into the complexities of new relationships and the nuanced act of self-presentation. The song’s music video, a spontaneous creation, features evocative night-time footage of Toronto’s streets intertwined with personal scenes shot by Mai’s partner. This visual element adds depth to the song’s exploration of intrigue and connection in the early stages of love.
SWiiMS has cultivated a diverse fanbase, resonating with listeners across various age groups and geographical locations. Their music, often compared to bands like Diiv, Slowdive, Beach House, and Alvvays, offers a unique blend of styles that appeals to a wide audience. With “Fade Days” and the upcoming release of “Into the Blue Night,” SWiiMS continues to craft music that mirrors the complexities of life and love, all set against the evocative backdrop of Toronto’s moonlit streets. As they prepare to release their new LP, SWiiMS stands poised to further solidify their place in the indie music scene, offering a rich, emotional tapestry of sound that speaks to the universal experiences of love, loss, and the search for meaning in an ever-changing world.