Web: turbogoth.com
Contact: [email protected]
Players: Sarah Gaugler, vocals; Paolo Peralta, guitar
In April, N.Y.C.-based duo Turbo Goth invited listeners to their “Multiverse Party” at Chelsea Table & Stage. Below a hotel, the low stage was circled by tables and chairs, as if the audience and musicians were on equal footing. The set list featured less than 10 tracks and felt like a private show for loved ones. Despite living in N.Y.C. now, Turbo Goth was founded by Peralta and Gaugler in the Philippines in 2008. When they started, they were the only electronic rock duo in the country.
After a spoken word opening act, the two greeted the crowd and took to the stage. Immediately, each member of the duo fell into an assigned role. While Peralta’s hard rock guitar riffs kept the crowd tethered, Gaugler’s light and high vocal register floated up into space. Mixed with heavy vocal reverb and backing beats, Turbo Goth’s sound is somehow grounded and surreal. It dips its toes into experimentalism but never loses the plot. They were an interesting dichotomy—Peralta was a consummate rock star while Gaugler was more pop diva. Together, their stage presence was electric and intriguing.
Occasionally, Gaugler’s reverb was so pronounced, the lyrics layered, slowly sliding over each other. It was as if the vocal melody was being poured slowly, as a syrup, over the crowd. Other times, Gaugler would transition to quicker phrasing or lofi “oohs,” showing off her range. Peralta’s guitar lines brought heavy energy, shredding below the vocals. Bringing a more traditional rock sound, Peralta was an unwavering and commanding force on stage. Encouraged by fog and flashing lights, Peralta would alternate between jumping around and rolling on the floor, overtaken with the music.
Between tracks, Gauger would take time to address the audience to give speeches and thanks. Before one track, Gauger detailed a utopian future, built on love and trust, and hoped that we would all go forth to work together. They frequently thanked the crowd for coming, and during their final track, left the stage to thank close friends and family personally. It was a sweet way to close the show, confirming how deeply Turbo Goth appreciated support from their fans.
Turbo Goth is finishing their tour, but frequently post about upcoming shows on their socials. They also document their travels and adventures on their blog, highlighting different locations they visit for shows. All information about upcoming dates and personal stories can be found on their website.
‘ The preceding article may include information circulated by third parties ’
‘ Some details of this article were extracted from the following source www.musicconnection.com ’
