Formed in 2021 in the vibrant musical landscape of Hackney, London, Cheerless has quickly emerged as a force in modern shoegaze. Combining the lush, textural guitar tones of late ‘80s and ‘90s shoegaze with a fresh, contemporary edge, Cheerless creates a sound that resonates both with nostalgia and innovation. Their dense guitar layers and atmospheric vocals invite listeners into a world of immersive soundscapes, setting them apart in the UK’s alternative music scene.
Led by Charlie Wigglesworth and backed by the talents of Dan, James, and Harry, Cheerless first caught significant attention with their 2022 single, Heat. This release solidified their place within the genre, weaving together expansive instrumentals and reverb-heavy atmospheres that captivated fans and critics alike. Heat quickly became a go-to for shoegaze devotees, balancing melody and raw intensity, essential qualities that have defined the genre’s appeal for decades.
Their rising momentum continued into 2023 with the release of “003,” a track that underscored Cheerless’s ability to captivate. The song earned critical acclaim, landing at 16th on Far Out’s Best Songs of the Year list, and received enthusiastic support from tastemakers across the UK. Influential figures like John Kennedy on X Radio and Tom Robinson on Fresh On The Net championed the track, showcasing it to a wider audience and cementing Cheerless as a key player in today’s shoegaze resurgence.
As Cheerless moves forward, their music suggests a promising trajectory, one that honors shoegaze’s classic sound while bringing a distinct voice to its ongoing evolution.
