Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Sam Valdez has returned with a new single, “Clean,” a melancholy and reverb-laden take on her breezy brand of indie rock. Steeped in ambient guitar textures, the space in the song allows Valdez’ velvety vocals to take center stage while being enveloped in swells of dreamy production. The track’s hushed atmosphere recalls Hope Sandoval’s enchanting slowcore balladry while also being akin to the trance-like euphoria of Cigarettes After Sex’s most melodic ditties. While its sonic embellishments are gentle and inviting, its Valdez’ earnest takes on twisted love that prove the most endearing. On “Clean,” she appears increasingly adept at composing immersive love songs and self-reflections from different human perspectives.
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