by Dan Goldin (@post_trash_)
This past August, Ukraine’s Bichkraft released their new single Desire b/w Rod, the duo’s first set of songs to feature lyrics written in English. Following three experimental albums for Wharf Cat Records, they continue to shift their sound in new directions, “Desire” hinting an a new found pop-eccentricity with dance punk friendly tendencies. It feels less harsh and mechanical than their previous output, opting for a sunnier demeanor, even though the lyrics battle with the dark realities of their home town in Kiev.
The lyrics were written about raids at local night clubs were the police arrested those in attendance to force them into military occupation. It’s a terrifying prospect to be out dancing with your friends one moment and drafted into war the next, and Bichkraft have chosen to bring attention to it over a silky post-punk charmer that is as sultry and it is relaxed and funky. The hook of “too many cops in this club / I’m sitting here, don’t you want me to run” carries a significant weight, though you’d hardly know it the way it’s presented in joyous 80’s technicolor. The video captures a night at the club from the perspective of the floor… because why not.