GEMS self-released the Medusa EP in 2013, a debut with a remarkably mature sound. On Medusa, haunting and deeply emotive vocals provide the backbone for a dark and dreamy production, balancing gauzy atmospherics with emotional heft. That mix finds new tension and release on GEMS’ first full-length album, Kill the One You Love. The record more deeply indulges in the group’s evocative shadow pop, influenced by R&B production and shoegaze. But at the core of GEMS’ music is existential longing.