The motions and experiences that define who you are, or who you will be, are constantly in flux. They can appear as emotional and existential queries; doubts or thoughts about your place in the world. For the indie psych rock outfit Lost Cousins, grappling with life transitions—and the domino effects of those choices—is at the core of their sprawling, celestial-sounding debut LP.

Moving to a big city to pursue music full-time was an obvious choice for the group—to be in a place where music was more central, where opportunities to play regularly were there. Yet still, it was hard transition; pursuing what you love, what you want to dedicate your life to, is a full-time job and more. Moving away from your roots to a place of deep unfamiliarity is at the core of Lost Cousins’ debut via Pheromone Recordings. They re-directed these inspirations and ideas towards developing their sound while garnering acclaim and credit for the work they did on their own, championing the DIY ethos that defines indie music.

The record is a sweeping, anthemic tribute to the things one loses or gives up; the places one longs for, especially as one grows up and moves on. “I used to live on the west coast when I was younger.”, adds Cam. “I never actually wanted to leave, and always had a sense of that in my songwriting. Not just lyrically, but musically; I’d say it’s a longing.” Lost Cousins’ songs are concerned with the fluidity of life; pulling images and metaphors from nature, water, and spaces not immediately available to them in the city, like on “Shores,” Trails,” and “Seajets,” to tell stories of how small one can feel in times of big decisions. It’s a record that spans the entire country and collapses back into itself; feeling like a swelling ocean tide with a sweet, significant comedown when it finally settles on the beach.

The group are influenced by contemporary indie rock outfits like Tame Impala, Bombay Bicycle Club, M83, and Local Natives, but pull, too, from the foundations of rock music, and pop sensibilities. They have toured throughout Canada and the United States, including opening spots for The Strumbellas, Matthew Good and Hollerado. Recent Canadian festival performances include sets at Wayhome (2015), CityFolk (2016), NXNE (2017), Evolve (2018), and Hillside Festival (2017). Lost Cousins is Cam Duffin (drums), Lloyd McArton (guitar, saxophone), and Thomas Dashney (keyboards).