After a 16 year hiatus, Mazzy Star, best known for their hit “Fade Into You” off their 1993 album So Tonight I Might See, has returned with new material and is set to perform at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival this weekend and next.

The band, whose sound can be described as ambient folk/country psychedelic, has released a “double-sided” single which includes the songs “Common Burn” and “Lay Myself Down” (a limited edition 7inch 33rpm blue vinyl is also available). Mazzy Star’s simple yet emotional sound picks up right where it left off and vocalist Hope Sandoval’s voice still holds that same romantic innocence it had years ago.

“Common Burn” is a slow melancholy tune about a girl who longs to “hang around” while the one she sings to flees from her. The track features a mellow reverb drenched lead guitar with numerous string bends accompanied by a softly strumming acoustic guitar, with a harmonica and xylophone to complete the tune’s ambient atmosphere.

“Lay Myself Down,” which is about questioning the regret that may follow certain actions, leans more toward a country feel as it features a pedal steel guitar accompanied by a strumming acoustic guitar. It’s certainly a beautiful tune that is the perfect soundtrack to create a romantic atmosphere.

If you enjoyed Mazzy Star’s sound in the past or if you enjoy country influenced music, you’ll surely want to take a listen to these two new tracks. Though no official date has been given, Mazzy Star has announced that they do plan to release a full length album of new material this year. Be sure to catch Mazzy Star on Coachella’s Friday lineup and you just might be treated to some of their new tunes.

Album: Common Burn/ Lay Myself Down

Artist: Mazzy Star

Label: Rhymes of an Hour Records

-Anthony Centeno