Showing a haunting and creative rock vigor, “Oh My God My Chemicals” is the new single from Hovering Shrikes. The Portland, OR-based band captivate with a constantly evolving song structure and grandiose anthemic hold. For their exciting live performances, Hovering Shrikes have drawn comparisons to Pulp and The Cure, apt citations considering their knack for balancing cinematic soundscapes with hooky, melodic songwriting.
“Oh My God My Chemicals” builds patiently from dreamy guitar pulses, percussive click-clacks, and a slight backing effervescence alongside steady vocals; the climactic swell reminds me fondly of “F.E.E.L.I.N.G.C.A.L.L.E.D.L.O.V.E.” from Pulp. The symphonic backing and more clamoring percussion in the bridge falls into a wave of guitar distortion and escalating rhythms.
The excitable vocals — “oh my god, my chemicals,” — play with replay-inducing vigor. The track’s developmental first half and rock-frenzied second half contrast beautifully, with cohesive development throughout. “Oh My God My Chemicals” is an exciting track from Hovering Shrikes.
The band’s full album release is planned for later this fall.
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This track and others featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Best of September 2022’ Spotify playlist.
