My wi-fi cut off right when I was approaching writing this article. That left me in a sort of artistic void, because I had indeed watched (and listened to) Hovering Shrikes’ official video for ‘Oh My God My Chemicals’, but just once. Which meant one listen was all I had to form a conscious opinion on the track. As you will discover soon, one listen was not nearly enough to appreciate the refined artistry and the interesting sonic formula applied by the American talents. You see, some artists are happy with pursuing the mainstream, the beaten path, let’s say. Others, including our heroes Hovering Shrikes, prefer to explore broader territories, finding the perfect spot where their art can flourish.
‘Oh My God My Chemicals’ is indeed a special number. Featuring a cinematic vocal tone interpreting intense storytelling, the track possesses a certain dramatic quality, feeling more like poetry at times. Tribalistic percussions and intimate guitars aid the song in finding its place, before jumping into punk-rock settings not long after. It’s only at this point that we get to appreciate the magnitude of Hovering Shrikes, who somehow manage to pair ruthless, punchy instrumental to heartfelt, pensive lyrics.
Headed by long-time collaborators Ryan Wilson and Casey Frantum, the group is completed by Dan Duncan and Ian Stephens. With the current single, Hovering Shrike is gearing up for an album release in November, a record we are looking forward to. For the moment though, make sure to get listening to ‘Oh My God My Chemicals’.
Recommended! Watch the official video on Youtube:
