There is something inherently intoxicating and memorable about the auditory bouquet of Nightmare Fortress. Perfecting their kinetic, alienated dreamscape sound since 2011, the Seattle group’s debut long-player, The Wanting, is an immaculate collection of high-strung synergy, bound to get the mind thinking while dirtying the dance floor.
Nightmare Fortress is Alicia Amiri (vocals), Colin Roper (synths), Blair Field (synths), and Cassidy Gonzales (guitar), who, with the assistance of producer Erik Blood (Shabazz Palaces, THEESatisfaction, Crypts), have crafted a sound on the darker side of the pop spectrum, showcasing a divine chemistry that gives their intricate orchestrations a potent punch. Where synths drip in layers of swirling, lush harmonies operating in a perfect parallel with tense yet tranquil string work, the backbone of synthetic drums offers a crisp, driving metronome with snare snaps that penetrate throughout. As the centerpiece, Amiri’s sharp voice soars through the rhythm’s open spaces, slowly unfurling in a grand, cinematic arc.
With a selection of cuts to rival that of an 80’s slasher - do your ears a favor and scale up the dark, dangerous, bewitchingly beautiful walls of the Nightmare Fortress.
They have supported bands in the Pacific Northwest and down the west coast including Austra, Crystal Castles, Peter Hook & the Light, Trust, A Place to Bury Strangers, Cold Cave, ADULT., Niki & the Dove, Tearist, Grave Babies and more.
Nightmare Fortress’s tracks
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