Its title referencing the escalating dangers of AI, The Waking Giant EP is a stirring new release from Atlanta-based band Winchester 7 & The Runners. The album’s nine tracks feels like a concept album, featuring the tale of a tech investor who strives to create a world driven AI, where various members of society — the wealthy, the retired, and the doomsday preppers — can blissfully immerse themselves.
Within a melodic, accessible pop and rock intertwining, each track features the perspective of a character in this conceptual world — where their body and mind sit in an fascinating state of separation, molded by AI and virtual reality. “Two Feet on the Ground” is a fitting kickoff, driving into a twinkling hook with a title-touting reference to “the finish line,” arising in a delectably soaring guitar solo.
“Disassociation / All You Ever Wanted” fits beautifully within the overarching thematic aim, tempting to “close your eyes,” and give into new senses that resemble a “getaway in the dead of night.” The Waking Giant EP is a stellar showing from Winchester 7 & the Runners, impressing widely, from the hazy psych-touched “Stories to Tell” to the rockin’ charisma of “Sell the Apocalypse.”
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We discovered this release via MusoSoup, as part of the artist’s promotional campaign.
