MINNESOTA SOUND REVIEWS - 2/12/25
Reviews by: Alexandra Haynes, Writer @xalexonlinex
Edited by: Andrew Perrizo, Owner/Editor @PlaylistTC
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Willows "Endless Range"
“Endless Range,” from the Willows Cinematic Universe album (December 2024) is a generous, mystical track. Its enchanting swirls of sound are made complete with magically singing strings and woodsy percussive elements, while the vocals are warm and playful as they duet in sync. The many layers of instrumentation here smoothly accompany one another in a masterful way; the sonic landscape is pure fantasy still somehow based in an earthy, folksy reality. It conjures images of the sunrise and sunset over rolling hills and the sensation of breathing in crisp, country air. Willows’ blend of soulfulness and folk invoke feelings of friendship and wonder, of love and hope.
The Swongos "Swampie Invasion"
“Swampie Invasion,” from the band’s 2024 EP Swizzle, scratches my need for an instrumental party track that has richness and depth. I easily imagine myself getting up to no good in the best kind of way with this song accompanying my mischief. The surf punk vibes kick in immediately - the song begins with a rolling, hip-waggling drum beat and woozy guitar riffs. The Swongos play on the hallmarks of their genre expertly, delivering solid, consistent beachside rock with sultry, funky, old school basslines and winding, building chord progressions matched to rapid drum fills. A slight echo adds a touch of whimsical psychedelia to the mix; I can’t help but dance while getting lost in their rhythms.
Scott Hefte and the Bury 'em Deep "Exits in Brooklyn"
Released on their self-titled album in March 2024, “Exits in Brooklyn” pleases the ear with auxiliary percussion front-and-center, defining a folksy edge to their sound. Scott Hefte and the Bury ‘em Deep don’t stop on folkiness alone, though - growly guitars come in to join on the choruses and synth keys play out a main melody from the song’s opening to create complementary contrast to the firmly rooted acoustics. These locals are serving modern Americana, and their soundscapes offer a freshness to the scene.
Lack "Double Agent"
Lack’s “Double Agent,” featuring Sam Bossen, is hardcore which draws inspiration from Nu-Metal. They slam together those influences with aggro, punky vocals and a breakneck tempo, while every breakdown leans into the mean, distortion-thickened instrumentation that is sure to drive a crowd wild. This song is frenzied, yet slick - manic, but focused. It demands the listener thrash in place and let go of their inhibitions, if only for the track’s short 2 minute, 10 second run time. “Double Agent” comes from the band’s rockstar Worldwide EP, released in October 2024. Keep putting Twin Cities hardcore on the map, Lack.
Popstar "AFTERPARTY"
“AFTERPARTY,” from the EP OBSCENE (released in April 2024,) explodes noisily as experimental hardcore, sharing some sonic DNA with the likes of Machine Girl. Where Machine Girl dive further into their electronic beats, Popstar crash into their rock and metal roots, getting heavy while still dabbling in electronically-infused breakdowns. The duo is bold here, their musical cut-aways unafraid to switch up the tempo and re-engage the listener with new dynamics. This song made me a Popstar fan.
King Sized Coffin "Out For Vengeance"
“Out For Vengeance” serves gritty rock with a highly stylized, theatrical bent. King Sized Coffin leans into an original, dark fairytale in this short shanty, describing the coming revenge of a witch they failed to kill – the witch with “one good eye” who’s “covered in spiders.” The vocal delivery is full of character while being well enunciated and crisp, and the band’s incredible use of their instruments (here, trombone!) playing disconcerting but danceable melodies is hauntingly satisfying. This track is featured on the band’s latest album, Keep Vigilant, released in September 2024.
