Maybe it’s because we’ve been brainwashed by books and films, but we’ve come to expect our heroes to appear in the moments that we most need them. And as we stare down a new era, all of us with a good internet connection or, simply, just a good set of eyes have plenty of reasons to believe that we need saving.
The world is in distress. We are reminded of this by the folks in suits running the news cycles, especially every day. Yet, the music that you’re likely to hear this winter will rarely reflect that. It’ll get you to buy, drink, and be merry, sure. But come next January, you’ll be expected to be scared all over again.
If only there was a sound to express the dread that, collectively, we are all feeling.If only grunge music could deliver that catharsis. Inspired by 90s alternative rock and by the cynicism floating in the air, Joker’s Hand delivered a heroic classic-rock offering with their EP “Pride Before the Panic.”
It all starts out ominous enough, with the intro piece providing a glimpse into the future where an egomaniacal voice rings loudly and promises to “cure the world of all its pain.” This quickly segways into “Highly Functioning Mind,” a song that gives the true measure of this project. The driving rocker is built on the foundation of alt-rock, complete with distorted guitar riffs and gritty vocals.
While Joker’s Hand avoid getting overly political, the music is clearly designed from a place of distrust with the modern world’s attempt to have everyone fall in line. “Break from the Simulation” charges into a powerful chorus where the shouted vocals attempt to spark a revolution.
What’s the price that will be paid unless such a movement gets started? The Rage Against The Machine-inspired “Peace of Mind” gives a glimpse into the tense future that might await us all.
Joker’s Hand’s greatest strength is the ability to take elements of grunge and alternative rock and rework them in a way that doesn’t feel like mere hero worship or imitation. “Apparition” and “IDFWU” are perfect examples of this, well-produced rock tunes filled with anguish but with confidence also.
Sometimes, the world gets what it needs. And, perhaps, at this very moment, it is not singing carrolls that will make us feel better, but music that expresses what the vast majority of us have been made to feel.
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