Punchlove's “Screwdriver” and the Raw Realities of Brooklyn Shoegaze

Brooklyn-based shoegazers, Punchlove, emerge from the borough's thriving shoegaze scene with their single ”Screwdriver.” Featuring loud droning guitars, extensive drum work, and vocals that are felt more than understood, the band effortlessly encapsulates everything you could want out of a modern shoegaze record

Created in college between classmates, Punchlove’s appeal extends beyond just their sound — they’re more of a reflection of the shared circumstances of their dedicated fanbase. In 2022, immediately following their graduation, the group moved into a weathered old house in Brooklyn, marking the beginning of a tumultuous but creatively fruitful chapter for the band.

Unlike many of Punchlove's other tracks, which were written before the move, "Screwdriver" stands out as a unique expression of disorder — bassist and vocalist Jill Oleson said “It's basically about how easy it is to remember certain periods of the past as being unrealistically simple or perfect and sort of the painful nostalgia that comes with that  misinformed relativity of memory.” Delving into the vulnerabilities associated with over-romanticizing the “good old days”, Jill explores the notion that while it a privilege to have beautiful memories, it's equally important to acknowledge every present second as a gift, and not get lost in the nostalgia of yesterday. 

 With a foundation in shared struggles, an old house, and budding adulthood, Screwdriver encapsulates the raw, unfiltered essence of Punchlove's journey, making it a must-listen for fans of both shoegaze and those who desire to hear about the erratic realities of life.

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