Bootblacks is a Brooklyn-based post-punk band that blends a darkly atmospheric sound with danceable rhythms, reflective lyricism, with a distinctly modern edge. Their name is a nod to both the grit of urban life and the romanticized melancholy that often permeates their music. Formed in 2010, the band originally came together through a shared love of darkwave and post-punk energy. Over the years, they have developed a distinctive style characterized by pulsating basslines, shimmering guitar riffs, and dynamic synthesizers.
Known for their electrifying live performances, Bootblacks have toured extensively in the U.S. and Europe, sharing stages with prominent post-punk and darkwave acts. Their ability to connect with audiences through both introspective and anthemic songs has made them a standout in their genre.
Bootblacks released their debut album, Narrowed, in 2012, setting the stage for their distinctive sound. They gained wider recognition with their follow-up albums, Veins (2016) and Fragments (2017), which showcased their evolution into a more dynamic and polished act. Their 2020 album, Thin Skies, marked a high point for the band, earning critical acclaim for its cinematic scope and meticulous production. The band's newest full-length release "Paradise" will be released June 13th, 2025 on Artoffact records.
"Paradise" marks a new evolution in the band's sound. Drawing from a wider range of influences the album incorporates lush synths, jagged guitar riffs, the allure of smooth saxophone solos with brooding, bass-driven dance songs and reflective anthems.
The Bootblacks 2025 album “Paradise” marks a departure from the manic percussion and guitar-driven energy of the artist’s angular post-punk roots to a more electronic and immersive soundscape. The album continues their exploration of the 1980’s musical landscape with melancholic lyrics, shimmering guitar riffs, lush synths, sultry saxophones and bass-driven soundscapes. “Paradise” is an audacious ode to contradiction: lush yet raw, melancholic yet euphoric, polished yet pulsing with grit, where beauty and despair coexist.
Forbidden Flames is one of the songs I already know and am spinning it as part of my personal playlist! It’s a nice and sweet post-punk track. The vocals sound heavenly and the global sound ask for a spink and for fame! It’s a must have track!
Check this clip:
Only You (feat. Chris Vrenna & Benjamin Harrison) sounds a bit softer, still with great guitar play, it has a more romantic touch but also some more explosive moments. The sax gives it a nice extra and sexy touch.
Paradise sounds like an 80’s synthpop hit, with on top some guitar slices. The vocals could be a bit more upfronted in the chorus.
Can You Feel It (Anymore) has a nice tempo, a chorus that you can sing a long and a nice global sound.
Wilderness doesn’t sound as wild as the title says, but still it has great 80’s vibe’s and fans will be delighted with the global sound.
When You Want is another great track that I’m spinning for already a while. The vocals are great, the song demands for a bit of dancing. I get a happy feeling after listening to this song.
Leipzig (feat. Oskar Carls[VIAGRA BOYS]) sounds loud, fuelled up with a clear retro 80’s sound and a cool sax. The female backings give the song a sexy touch.
Fade Away sounds a bit like an alternate version of another song on this album. The guitar play and the synth are really working it up in a nice way.
Melt is a soft ending, sadly it feels more like a filler. I would have loved to end it with a banger as it cools down the game as it was for the rest an excellent album!
Check this clip:
