Strawberry Switchblade, a Scottish pop duo formed in 1981, released their self-titled album in 1985, marking it their first and last group project. While often associated with goth music, their sound predominantly falls under the new wave genre as their discography consists of upbeat songs with a classic 80’s synth in the background. However, the band took inspiration from multiple alternative subcultures ranging from lolita to punk, helping them garner a reputation in the goth scene. The members, Rose McDowall and Jill Bryson, were known for their hyper-feminine aesthetic, often wearing ribbons, bows, and lacy dresses. But the frills prove to be a façade masking the melancholic lyricism in their songs, which often portrayed darker subjects such as mental disorders and unhealthy relationships. These introspective lyrics classify them as a dark wave group, contributing to their popularity within alternative spaces.

The album, Strawberry Switchblade, features twenty songs, including their pre-released singles such as “Trees and Flowers” and “Since Yesterday.”

“Trees and Flowers” depicts Bryson’s agoraphobia disorder, which is described as the fear of environments that induce panic. In more severe cases, such as hers, it prevents someone from leaving their house entirely. She expresses her desire to remain indoors by referring to her home as a “prison,” and mentioning the distaste she holds for the outside world: “I hate the buildings and the way they tower over me,” she sings throughout the chorus. “10 James Orr Street” and “Michael who Walks By night,” my personal favorite off the album, present a similar dismal feeling upon listening due to their slower instrumentals.

Contrastingly, “Ecstasy (Apple of my Eye)” and “Since Yesterday” are much better representations of Strawberry Switchblade’s girly side. The airy vocals deliver messages about the excitement of naive love and their inevitable dissolutions. The juxtaposition within their album helps them appeal to audiences with different tastes in music as these songs opt for a much faster tempo.

Though the use of their signature trumpets and electric notes may sound unfamiliar to listeners, I would recommend that fans of other darkwave groups, like The Cure and Cocteau Twins, or those wanting to branch out their music taste give the album a listen.