On its new single “When Shadows Fall,” Rochester alternative rock trio Slightly Psychedelic taps into an atmospheric vibe that is spooky, but not over the top. While the lyrics reference a haunted house, the subject matter could also be a smoke screen for fear itself.

This track was recorded in a garage, using a reel-to-reel tape deck. “When Shadows Fall” was captured with this old-school technique and is anchored in a retro style; in general, Slightly Psychedelic’s catalog of original songs is Joycean, consisting of multiple genres expressing a coherent narrative.

“When Shadows Fall” starts with an instantly catchy chorus, and frontman Robert Dagnolo’s vocal melody is decidedly smooth. His clean guitar tone and the upbeat arrangement recall a ’60s rock ‘n’ roll sound. Clocking in at less than two and a half minutes, the result is sugary pop with a dark twist.