A charismatic throwback to early ’00s indie rock, “Stampede” rides on escalating vocal confidence and chirpy guitar tones into a hooky rise. The track comes via Barrelly Ego, the project of singer/songwriter Ionut Putura, presently based around Berlin, Germany. Barrelly Ego marks Putura’s solo project, following success as the frontman for Romanian band Mojo Barrel.
A Strokes-esque guitar chiming complements a steady vocal presence, pleading to “enjoy the rush,” prior to a burst of guitar distortion and vocal vibrancy. The soaring vocal performance that follows is wholly enamoring, with expressive vocal work guiding seamlessly into the quainter verses. The “lost at sea,” psych-friendly, acoustical engrossment diversifies enjoyably. “Stampede” is a fun, melodic rocker from Barrelly Ego.
—
This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Best of December 2023’ Spotify playlist.
