Sidewave is an alternative rock and shoegaze project founded by songwriter, vocalist, and guitarist Phil Golyshko. Originally emerging from a collection of recordings known as the Big Time Demos, the project took shape when Golyshko reconnected with longtime musical collaborators Brandon Dickert and Bill Collins, all originally from Chicago and then living in Southern California. Bassist Matt Russell soon joined, completing the lineup that would bring Sidewave’s early material to life.

Sidewave released its debut full-length album, Glass Giant, in 2015. Mixed by Aaron Harris (ISIS, Palms), the album established the band’s signature combination of heavy, fuzz-laden guitars, expansive melodies, and atmospheric textures. During this period, Sidewave performed alongside acts including The Life and Times, Black Map, and Æges, building a reputation for powerful, immersive live performances.

Sidewave subsequently evolved from a full band into a studio project, with Golyshko taking on the primary creative and recording responsibilities. The second full-length album, Ultraviolet (2019), marked this transition, further developing the project ’s layered sound and ambitious songwriting while maintaining the intensity and melodic character of its earlier work.

In October 2026, Sidewave returns with its third full-length album, Dispel. Continuing as a solo project with contributions from longtime collaborators Brandon Dickert on drums and Matt Russell on bass, the nine-track record builds on Sidewave’s musical history while exploring themes of longing, transcendence, and the desire to reach beyond the boundaries of ordinary existence.