The Sundays

The Sundays have been a beloved part of the music scene since their debut album in 1991. Combining melodic dream pop with elements of shoegaze and casually alternative, The Sundays built up a cult-like audience that is still devoted to this day. Despite having achieved some success over the years, they are often overlooked or forgotten when it comes to discussing great bands from their era. In this blog post we will explore both the critical points and redeeming qualities of The Sundays, as well as where they stand today - thirty years after releasing ‘Reading Writing & Arithmetic’.

There are certain bands that have the ability to transport us to different times and emotions with the simple strum of a guitar, and The Sundays are a perfect example of that. Formed in 1988 in London, England, the band released their debut album Reading, Writing & Arithmetic in 1991, which quickly gained critical acclaim and a loyal following. Their music was a unique blend of dream pop, shoegaze, and alternative rock, with lead singer Harriet Wheeler's ethereal vocals and David Gavurin's understated guitar playing as the driving forces. Despite not achieving superstardom, The Sundays have left an indelible mark on the music world. In this blog post, we will explore their enduring appeal, their legacy, and where they stand today.

When Reading, Writing & Arithmetic was released, it was a breath of fresh air. The alternative music scene in the early 90s was dominated by grunge, with bands like Nirvana and Soundgarden taking center stage. The Sundays provided a much-needed change of pace with their ethereal sound and introspective lyrics. Songs like Here's Where the Story Ends and Can't Be Sure showcased the band's ability to create catchy, yet thoughtful music that appealed to a wide range of listeners. Harriet's vocals were a perfect match for the band's sound, and she quickly became a beloved figure in the music world.

In 1992, The Sundays released their second album, Blind, which was also well-received by critics and fans alike. The album showcased a more mature sound for the band, with a greater emphasis on instrumentation and experimentation. Songs like Goodbye and Love demonstrated the band's willingness to push boundaries while still retaining their signature sound. Despite the success of Blind, The Sundays never achieved the commercial success that some of their contemporaries did, and they took a hiatus in the mid-90s.

Despite releasing only three albums in their career, The Sundays' impact on the music world cannot be understated. Their influence can be heard in the music of countless artists, from Belle and Sebastian to The Decemberists. The band's dreamy sound and introspective lyrics have stood the test of time and continue to resonate with listeners today. In 2021, the 30th anniversary of Reading, Writing & Arithmetic, the band's loyal fanbase took to social media to celebrate the milestone and reflect on the band's legacy.

Currently, The Sundays do not have any plans to release new music or tour, but their past work continues to captivate audiences. Their music is a reminder of a simpler time in the music world, before the internet and streaming services took over. It's a testament to the band's talent that their music remains relevant today, despite the changing landscape of the music industry. The Sundays may not have achieved the commercial success of their contemporaries, but their enduring appeal speaks for itself.

The Sundays may not be a household name, but their place in the music world is secure. Their unique sound and introspective lyrics have left a lasting impact on the alternative music scene, and their influence can still be heard in the music of today. As we reflect on their legacy 30 years after the release of Reading, Writing & Arithmetic, it's clear that The Sundays are a band that will always be remembered for their timeless appeal.