by Dan Goldin (@paintingwithdan)
Swimming Faith, the Buffalo based punk label spearheaded by John Toohill, have been having a banner year. With new releases from Science Man, Ismatic Guru, Alpha Hopper, Havana Syndrome, and Razorface, the album’s collectively highlight a wide range of sound, from synth punk scuzz (heavy on the scuzz) and arty hardcore to incessant noise rock and egg punk exuberance. Next up comes the self-titled full length debut from Besta Quadrada, a self-described “bratty hardcore” record, jam packed with caustic rippers and bouncy rhythms. Much like Rotary Club or Judy And The Jerks, the band tear through each buzzing song with a surge of personality, vocalist Bailey’s songwriting equal parts rippling anxiety, bent thoughts, sass, and sarcasm. It’s a cathartic blast, punk music that’s not afraid to have some damn fun.
“Running” is the record’s lead single and album opener, the perfect introduction to their raw and hook-filled chaos. The guitars (courtesy of Toohill), bass, and drums come spiraling like a rust belt tornado, sweeping up dust and debris as the paint begins to peel from the walls. The energy is pounding and undeniably itchy (in the best of ways), burning a hole in the speaker as Bailey’s catchy yelps explore endless thoughts “running through my head.” It’s a jittery song to capture a jittery mind, delightfully frazzled and blistering.