An expansive and eclectic EP, ‘Three Strikes and You’re Out’ is rather surprising in its execution. Packed with witty storytelling and prophetic songwriting, the record’s sonic energy is incredibly varied, so much so that it makes it hard to frame Griffen Handshake into a specific genre box. It’s a quality, not a disadvantage. The industry is already hyper-fixated on a few strict formulas, so it’s refreshing to observe someone flipping the script.
The Pittsburgh-based outfit does exactly that: introducing the EP with the title track, they first indulge themselves in furious, hard-hitting punk-rock matter, delivering an anthemic, fuzzy jewel with a certain elegance to it. Follow-up ‘Morgan’ feels like a different universe. Mellow, honey-like melodies and piano-based pop, the track provides momentary relief, before jumping into guitar distortions again in ‘Kicking Rocks’. ‘Unclear’ ‘Wings’ take the record to a close with controlled euphoria.
Seeking to inspire listeners to push ahead through the dramatic whirlwind of life, Griffen Handshake explain: “The whole EP ties into a consistent theme of acceptance and finding purpose as we all move ahead in our journeys.”
Recommended! Discover ‘Three Strikes and You’re Out’ on Spotify:
