There’s been a lot of Asian shoegaze hereabouts. Lots of Japanese, obviously, some Thai, Korean, and reasonable representation from China, Taiwan, Hong Kong. Maybe some others. But what about Nepal? Dost they ‘gaze in Nepal? Yes, they do.

OutControlJoys are a trio from Pokhara, Nepal’s second city, who have been crafting uptempo washes of sound sung in both English and Nepali since 2019 following a former incarnation as hardcore band Anautho Prashna. Following a couple EPs, they released their self-titled debut came out a month ago. It was previewed with a visualizer which I guess means something different from video, but I couldn’t tell you how. I will say, however, that the visuals are probably not from a ride around Nepal.

It’s a solid 40 minute ride with solid hooks and familiar sonic touchpoints. Reinvention of the genre won’t be coming from the Himalayas but it’s good to know there is a solid outpost of shoegaze at the roof of the world.