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In 2015, the band Sheer Mag from Philadelphia released their second EP in partnership with a small punk label in Brooklyn. The EP’s main track, Fan the Flames, was a stand-out song that caught the attention of listeners. It seemed to have influences from hard rock rather than traditional punk, with hints of Thin Lizzy and possibly Lynyrd Skynyrd in its relaxed sound. Lead guitarist Kyle Seely displayed his skill with impressive solos, which were once admired as “tasty licks.” However, the overall sound was lo-fi and heavily distorted, including the powerful and soulful vocals of Tina Halladay, who sang about the issues of unjust landlords and gentrification. Amidst the classic rock elements, the noise, and the skillful musicianship, Halladay’s vocals and lyrics stood out as a protest against societal issues. What made the band even more intriguing was their rejection of social media and interviews with the press, amplifying the idea that they were unlike any other group at the time.
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Since then, Sheer Mag has become more open about their media presence and has released two full-length albums that have refined their unique sound found on their previous album, Fan the Flames. This sound encompasses retro rock with both hard and occasionally soft elements, as well as hints of noisy punk and garage aesthetics. The band also incorporates political lyrics, impressive guitar playing, and lead singer Halladay’s phenomenal voice. Their albums Need to Feel Your Love (2017) and A Distant Call (2019) come highly recommended, particularly for those interested in a vaguely New Wave of British Heavy Metal-inspired call to action for socialist revolution – the latter of the two containing the stand-out track “Chopping Block”. However, their latest release, Playing Favorites, represents a notable departure from previous works. Originally intended as a disco EP, the band has shared that this album was created as a way to cope with personal struggles through uplifting music. This origin is evident at points throughout Playing Favorites, both in the lyrics which confront challenging emotions (such as lead singer Halladay’s experience with the passing of her abusive father), and in the overall sound. Disco influences can be heard in the smooth and energetic tracks “All Lined Up” and “Mechanical Garden” which transitions from power-pop to orchestral to funky, complete with a blazing guitar solo by Mdou Moctar. “Moonstruck” also takes a dramatic turn from its initial slide-guitar infused country rock sound and heads towards a euphoric dancefloor groove, featuring a catchy melody reminiscent of Jackson 5’s hit “I Want You Back”.
The band’s original intention for their music has clearly expanded beyond their initial scope. This includes songs that fit lead singer Halladay’s description of the band’s unique selling point – a lack of traditional rock anthems in today’s music scene. However, one may question if this view is too simplistic when considering Sheer Mag’s sound. Their track “Eat It and Beat It” is rooted in traditional American rock, but it presents a different perspective with simmering frustration towards current issues. While it serves as a call to action for a new era of rock bands, it also touches on societal injustices with lyrics like “Don’t bother with the referee, it’s all going back to the company.” This approach has parallels in music history, as evidenced by Halladay and Matt Palmer choosing Judas Priest’s “Breaking the Law” as a song they wished they had written. Despite the song’s catchy riffs and boisterous video, it also expresses anger towards unemployment in 1980s Britain. This homage to past influences gives the track a timeless quality, while still feeling fresh and impactful.
The moments on the Playing Favorites album by Sheer Mag demonstrate expansion, whether through tonal shifts, such as the addition of a celeste in “Tea on the Kettle” or the introduction of an acoustic guitar in the title track, or in the band’s move towards a more pop-influenced sound.
Despite the use of light distortion, reminiscent of recordings done on a budget in a bedroom, there is a noticeable decrease in the growl in Halladay’s vocals and a sweeter tone in the melodies of “Golden Hour” and closer “When You Get Back”. The latter track stands out, with vocal harmonies and chiming guitars reminiscent of Thin Lizzy.
Overall, every song on the album is well executed, with the potential for some criticism from those who prefer the band’s more aggressive sound. However, this softer approach does not take away from the fierce and raw quality of Playing Favorites, showcasing the ability to evolve without losing their unique essence.
music.
Alexis spent time listening to music this week.
Musclecars – Ha Ya! (Eternal Life)
In the midst of a cold February, New York house music creators bring a vital burst of musical energy with their rendition of The Clark Sisters’ funk-gospel hit, creating a captivating and uplifting experience.
Source: theguardian.com
