Vancouver’s 604 Records is thrilled to announce the release of “(A Sort Of) Icarus,” the second advance single from the eagerly awaited collection of rarities by cult shoegazers Movieland. Slated for release on November 29th, this track will be featured on 604 Records’ new archival series, 604 Decades. It captures the band’s signature fusion of psychedelic soundscapes, moody melodies, and raw, introspective lyrics. Recognized for being ahead of their time, Movieland’s sound was instrumental in shaping the underground music scene of the early ‘90s, alongside bands like Nirvana and Sonic Youth as they broke into the mainstream. The full album, Then & Now, is set to drop on December 13th, 2024. “(A Sort Of) Icarus” embodies the essence of Movieland, showcasing the melodic brilliance and creative energy that flourished in Vancouver during this transformative musical era.

Movieland, founded in 1991 by songwriter Alan D. Boyd, has long been celebrated by a dedicated fanbase for their immersive soundscapes. Originally recorded during their formative years in the 1990s, “(A Sort Of) Icarus” delves into themes of aspiration and the fragility of human ambition, drawing parallels to the myth of (A Sort Of) Icarus—a poignant metaphor for the complexities of youth and self-discovery. In today’s music landscape, fans will be able to easily explore and appreciate Movieland’s sound on various streaming platforms, allowing for a renewed connection with their music. After years of anticipation from devoted listeners, 604 Decades aims to bring these songs to light. With captivating guitar riffs and evocative lyrics, “(A Sort Of) Icarus” invites listeners into a world of nostalgia, resonating deeply with both longtime fans and new listeners alike.

Of the single, Boyd shared, “The song came at a time when we were living in a huge house in Shaughnessy and exploring early Vancouver raves. A friend had written an epic poem about (A Sort Of) Icarus, and we read it one night after returning from a club—still aglow. I was also really into the Boo Radleys at that time and loving their song ‘Lazarus.’ So it grew out of them both. Very much the time and place.” The accompanying video is a seven-and-a-half-minute journey through dreamscapes, rich with psychedelic imagery that complements the epic drone of the tune. “The video captures the essence of (A Sort Of) Icarus, mixing all the elements we were into. We used to drop LSD and climb mountains. Talk about being burned by the sun.”

Pre-Order Movieland’s Album Then & Now
https://movieland1990.bandcamp.com/album/then-now

This release marks a significant moment for 604 Records, which is launching the 604 Decades project to celebrate the rich, often overlooked, musical history of Vancouver. By shining a spotlight on Movieland and other local acts from the 90s and early 2000s, the label aims to revive memories of a vibrant alternative music scene that produced both world-famous artists and hidden gems. In addition to Movieland, 604 Decades is set to release an album by Pure in 2025, further expanding its mission to unearth Vancouver’s hidden musical narratives

Fans can look forward to Movieland’s full collection, Then & Now, set for release on December 13th, 2024. This album will be a treasure trove of demos and unreleased tracks that capture the raw energy of Movieland’s early days. As the band re-emerges through this archival lens, they are set to rekindle their connection with audiences, proving that the music scene’s past continues to inspire and influence the present. With “(A Sort Of) Icarus” leading the charge, Movieland’s sound resonates anew, reaffirming that great art often deserves a second chance in the spotlight.