by Patrick Pilch (@pratprilch)
Since 2014, Sad Cactus have repeatedly uncovered the next wave of the underground before anyone else, working with excellent acts like Double Grave, Keeper, Lady Parts, Palm and many, many more. Four years later and “the little label that could” keeps on giving. Today we’re thrilled to premiere the debut EP from Lookers, Sad Cactus’ latest handpicked pearl. The five-track sampling from the Providence five-piece is an absolute gem; a testimony to the fledgling band’s stylistic versatility and obvious knack for songwriting.
Described as a dark-pop supergroup, Lookers spin sharp and nuanced numbers around vocalist Muggs Fogarty’s broad technical range. From the soft and subdued croons of “Thing” to the raspy howls of dance punk closer “Dead,” the singer possesses the ability to quickly shift moods to match the musical energy of Florence Wallis’ punchy basslines and Bryan Fielding’s airtight percussion. “Depressed,” Mirage’s unmistakable highlight, channels the dusky groove of Flasher and Boxer-era National, searing the track’s edges with a toe-tapping, post-punk danceability. Later, “Crisis” sounds like a next-gen take on Blondie—executed in a way where Lookers hardly sound like copycats. Mirage is solid as hell and high energy throughout; another excellent addition to Sad Cactus’ steadily growing catalogue.
Lookers’ Mirage is out this Friday (11/9) on Sad Cactus.