by Al Crisafulli (@Sugarblastmusic)
Following their 2017 breakup, the members of the Welsh noise pop band Joanna Gruesome splintered into a number of different outfits, the latest of which is The Tubs. Founded by singer Owen Williams and guitarist George Nicholls, The Tubs trade the thumping punk undertones of their former band for shimmery jangle, an ode to the energetic melody of late 80s college rock.
Wrapping sullen lyrics in upbeat pop is no great innovation, nor are songs that broach the subject of mental illness. Long before John Lennon sang “help me if you can, I’m feeling down,” pop songs dealing with anxiety and depression have been great equalizers between artist and listener. Something about a singer laying it out, saying “hey, I feel like shit too,” has established kinship with music fans for as long as recorded music has existed, yet with The Tubs, it feels fresh. As Williams sings “I think I’m losing my mind for good this time, I think I’m going round the bend,” we can relate. A backdrop of bright strumming and melody is the sugar that helps the medicine go down, and there is plenty of sugar.
Hooks seemingly materialize from out of nowhere, one after the other, Nicholls’ glittery chord arpeggios decorating every measure. Subtle synth flourishes add texture while bassist Wozza Warren and drummer Matt Green provide the punch. It’s Nicholls’ gorgeous guitar work that shines brightest though, his expressive playing and stunning sense of melody providing a rich backdrop for Williams’ dour but velvety voice. On “Sniveller,” Williams pleads “the way I writhe, the way I squirm, an arselicker” over an angular guitar figure, a jittery and tense expression of low self-esteem. The album saves its best for last; the closer, “Wretched Lie” finds Williams crooning “you are always on my mind” behind layers of arpeggiated chords, recalling the best of Morrissey/Marr while somehow feeling current.
With layers of hooks and harmony swirling around dark and introspective lyrical themes, Dead Meat reveals itself slowly, a dense work of complex, vibrant pop that begs repeat listens. Amidst dozens of new releases each week, this is one to stick with all year.