Out today, the debut EP from Seattle-based band Shaker Bloomheart: stickintheheadable, which balances a hooky rock sound with atmospheric guitar lines and post-punk rhythmic inspirations. The project formed via Craigslist in 2021, comprising Mike Batzer on bass and backing vocals, Rebecca Beracce on drums and backing vocals, and Brad Shults on guitar, piano, banjo, and lead vocals.
“Kandy” enamors with its jangling guitars and peppy percussive pulse, set alongside vocals lamenting on loneliness and entrenched memories. The occasional vocal reprieves are supplanted by a calming, melodic guitar presence — driving into a “list of chores,” vocal sequence, reminding fondly of Zach Condon in vocal tone, particularly upon the impassioned “million hours,” remark.
Another highlight, “Back and Forth” compels with its tender vocal delivery and hazy guitar work. “Never believe I’m alone,” the vocals uptick with ghostly backing quivers, as the “don’t take me away,” yearning caresses with a hooky, laid-back charm. Textured and classic-minded rock sounds, in the vein of Built to Spill, mesh with more modern rock/pop leanings, a la Foxygen and Beirut, throughout this stellar EP from Shaker Bloomheart.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Best of August 2023’ Spotify playlist.
