Los Angeles-based band GOODWIN captivate on two recent singles, succeeding on both the surf-tinged punchiness of “Gorilla Glue” and the jangling introspection within “Temporary Relief.” The group impresses with a sound that jumps seamlessly from soulful serenity to poppy rock vigor.
Released this past August, “Gorilla Glue” enamors with its twangy guitar work and hypnotic bass warmness, showcasing a surf-tinged rock sound whose lyrical appreciation is exemplary of the COVID era it was recorded in, when less contact with loved ones often led to a yearning for their connection. The band describes the output as “an indie love song about those special people that help you through low points, feel less alone, and find joy in the mess.” “It’s me and you, dynamic two, gorilla glue,” an especially magnetic sequence exudes, as the smitten warmness and melodic vocals meld with bouncy bass and surf-set guitar twangs for a replay-inducing sound.
The more recent single “Temporary Relief” unfolds with a more dreamily atmospheric charm, weaving jangly guitars and lonesome synths into a lush vocal captivation. “Give me that temporary relief babe,” they implore with layered allure, continuing to hypnotize in the “try, try” strumming. The final minute then dazzles with a gorgeous saxophone solo, bolstering the late-night rock feeling. Both the vibrant hookiness of “Gorilla Glue” and the more contemplative intrigue within “Temporary Relief” showcase a band with a penchant for riveting songwriting.
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These and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
