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Rising alt-metal/heavy-shoegaze outfit Sledges is gearing up for the release of a 12" vinyl edition of their acclaimed Losing Pace EP on their newfound home, Quiet Panic. The EP packs two brand new tracks, one of which, 'Fading," we are premiering today—watch the official video below. Blending elements of grunge, metal, emo, and post-hardcore, the San Diego-based four-piece has crafted a sound that’s as emotionally resonant as it is sonically heavy.

Formed in 2020 during the early days of the pandemic in Chula Vista, California, Sledges began as a three-piece driven by isolation and creative urgency. The band—Philly Gomez (vocals/guitar), Alex Angulo (bass), Julian Romero (guitar), and Mason Haidar (drums)—quickly began writing and recording original music, debuting with the single “Melting Lives,” which helped them build a grassroots following in the local scene.

Between 2021 and 2023, the band dropped a series of gripping singles, including fan favorites “Headwinds” and “Disgusting.” With the addition of Romero on lead guitar, the group’s sound evolved into a layered, aggressive, yet melodic force that draws inspiration from acts like The Smashing Pumpkins, Hum, Nothing, and Sunny Day Real Estate.

In 2023, Sledges recorded their debut EP Losing Pace with producer Mike Kamoo at Earthling Studios. Released digitally on May 2, 2024, the four-track project explores themes of emotional exhaustion and personal unraveling, as described by frontman Philly Gomez. The EP’s mix of crushing guitars, melodic choruses, and shoegaze textures has drawn praise from fans and critics alike, ultimately leading to the band signing with indie label Quiet Panic.