GENRE; Dark Wave/ Psychedelic/ Dream Pop

RELEASE DATE; 13 March, 2026

RATING; 3.9/5

Whilom return with an ambitious and immersive statement in their original single Third State, released on March 13, 2026. Emerging from the quiet creativity of Letchworth Garden City, the project—helmed by Bob Johns, continues to carve out a distinctive identity in the experimental electronic landscape. At its core, “Third State” explores the philosophical notion of a mysterious space between life and death, translating that idea into sound with striking emotional depth. Rather than relying on a predictable structure, the track unfolds patiently, inviting listeners into a meditative atmosphere before revealing its true sonic scale.

The opening moments are deceptively delicate, easing the audience in with ambient textures and restrained instrumentation. Then the track dramatically expands. A surge of distorted female vocals and thunderous drums breaks the calm, launching the song into a haunting lo-fi choir soundscape. Halfway through, guest contributor Skiddler delivers a reflective spoken-word passage that acts as a philosophical pause amid the intensity. Strings weave subtly beneath the narration, grounding the piece before it builds again toward a powerful, euphoric finale that echoes the song’s mysterious theme.

The single draws inspiration from genre-defying acts such as Boards of Canada and Slowdive, blending ambient electronics with dark dream pop and experimental gothic tones. Yet Whilom never sounds derivative. Instead, Bob Johns and collaborator Ian shape these influences into something personal, melding textured electronics with guitar-driven melodies that feel cinematic and emotionally charged. The track’s dynamic contrasts, from hushed ambience to towering crescendos, highlight the project’s evolving sonic ambition.

“Third State” also signals a notable creative step forward for Whilom, venturing into a grander, more “epic” sonic territory rarely explored in earlier material. The momentum surrounding the project is already building, following a sold-out debut show in November 2025 and radio support from Stuart Maconie on BBC Radio 6 Music. With its philosophical core and bold musical scale, the single positions Whilom as an artist unafraid to explore big ideas through equally expansive sound.

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