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Hey Sorry State readers! How are you? It’s been a meh kind of week for me. A lot going on that I don’t want to do, like dental work (please go to the dentist more frequently than every four years). It feels like a lot of the things I’ve majorly procrastinated on are now coming to a head. Something I don’t procrastinate on is listening to music. How’s that for a positive segue into my staff pick?
This one’s tough because I really like the Sirkka release (it’s so bad ass, highly recommended) but I figured someone else could do that write-up more justice at this time. So, I’m going with a band that’s not new, but new to me: Vanilla Poppers. I’ve been playing their EP, I Like Your Band, on repeat.
I think most of the band is from Melbourne, but for the last several years they made Cleveland their home. Still not sure why they chose Cleveland, but they actually found the scene to be very welcoming. But I think most of the band actually moved back to Melbourne.
Anyway, the EP is raw, somewhat melodic hardcore played with the utmost confidence. Vanilla Poppers get straight to the point and play with such urgency. It’s full of classic and interesting riffs and fast and furious drumming. The opening hook on the first track, Get Away from Me, is so killer. But it’s the singer’s wailing, screeching, vocals that take center stage for me. Not only are they cutting, but full of early 70s punk attitude.
The lyrics are simple but funny, and cover things like fake friends and being broke punks. And also the ritual of meeting people in the bathroom at punk shows and telling lies like “I like your band.” Which also happens to be the catchiest track on the EP. The EP is only four songs, so it’s over way before you’re ready.
I think if you like Judy and the Jerks, you will like Vanilla Poppers. Unfortunately it’s sold out on our web store, but I highly recommend checking them out.
Thanks for reading! See ya next time.
-Angela