Sword II overcame police raids to release new album “Electric Hour”

Sword II’s debut in 2023 with the Spirit World Tour was a powerful statement in the world of shoegaze music, blending dream pop melodies with indie rock history. Their performance at South River Festival coincided with the Cop City protests, where the police intervened and arrested numerous attendees. This event heightened Sword II’s determination to protest against police actions and inspired them to create new music.

Their latest album, Electric Hour, released in November, captures the band’s passion and energy. While the lyrics are not overtly political, the songs reflect a sense of urgency and a desire for a brighter future. The band shares insights into their time protesting Cop City and how it influenced the album’s creation process.

Travis and his bandmates rented a house in Atlanta to write and record music. The house had electrical issues, with no properly grounded outlets, causing them to experience electric shocks regularly. Despite the challenging environment, they persevered, relying more on acoustic guitars due to the safety concerns. Meanwhile, protests against Cop City escalated, with activists trying to prevent the destruction of a forested area for the training center. The band participated in fundraisers and witnessed intense confrontations between protesters and law enforcement officers.

Following the raids on the forest encampment, police repression increased, leading to widespread intimidation tactics and house raids. Mari Gonzáles reflects on the tumultuous times, emphasizing the urgency felt to create art in the face of societal unrest. Electric Hour serves as a form of healing during difficult times, highlighting the importance of seizing the moment and coming together rather than isolating oneself.

The band’s experiences during the creation of Electric Hour encapsulate a tumultuous period marked by protests, crackdowns, and a sense of urgency to resist oppressive forces. Despite the challenges they faced, Sword II channeled their energy into creating music that captures the spirit of resistance and hope for a better future. Electric Hour stands as a testament to the band’s resilience and commitment to their art in the face of adversity.