RIP DUNES embraces a nostalgic strain of post-punk and new wave on “Living In Fear,” the first single from the upcoming album Tales From The Ripped. The solo project of Matthew Iwanusa, also known as the singer of New York band Caveman, finds him working with drum machines, analog synths, guitars, and vocal arrangements to steer the project in a darker, driving direction, with co-production and mixing from Abe Seiferth.
The production dazzles in its nostalgic post-punk soundscape, weaving Joy Division-esque rhythmic maneuvers with pulsing guitar tones. Iwanusa’s delivery emerges with debonair precision, overall resembling a cross between post-punk classics and early Interpol. The solemn guitar layers combine with title-bearing lyricism, as the ensuing “never hold you back” refrain and flourishing, wordless harmonies extend into a lovely synth-laden touch around the two-minute mark. Hooky while embracing a late-night rock drive, “Living in Fear” is an excellent track from RIP DUNES.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
