Top Five Friday Picks: Tension Splash, The Strange Theory of Light and Matter, Lionbelly, The AMX – Pulp
The Friday Five showcases a selection of music from artists and labels connected to Washtenaw County, featuring Tension Splash, The Strange Theory of Light and Matter, Lionbelly, The AMX, and Iconic Chronic.
Tension Splash’s Blur EP presents a revived grunge sound, capturing the essence of the genre’s heyday from 30 years ago. This Ann Arbor-based quartet revisited previously unfinished tracks, expertly crafted with Tim Patalan at The Loft in Saline. Songs like “Willing” and “Breathe” are treated to updated versions, showcasing the band’s evolution while staying true to their original vision. The EP serves as a tribute to bassist Mike Bertsch, a dear friend who passed away in 2020, making it a poignant and heartfelt endeavor from the band.
The enigmatic The Strange Theory of Light and Matter offers a unique blend of electro-metal and instrumental death metal in their dds7sd5df67 EP. The project’s anonymous nature adds an air of mystery, with titles alluding to physics in a complex and intriguing manner. The music itself is a fusion of genres, mixing elements of electronica and video-game music, showing a technical prowess that caters to an audience that appreciates intricate compositions.
Lillie’s venture as Lionbelly introduces us to The Wild Strange, a 17-track album bridging jangly pop with earnest folk-rock undertones. Drawing inspiration from the likes of Lou Reed, this one-person project strikes a chord with its vibrant and authentic sound. The artwork for the album, created by Ypsi artist Jen Harley, complements the music’s whimsical and heartfelt essence.
Detroit-based techno producers The AMX, consisting of Raleigh and Renan Woods, deliver “Ace Deuce,” a homage to their birthplace. The track exudes an old-school techno-electro vibe that pays tribute to the heritage of Detroit and Chicago. The duo’s sonic explorations reflect a deep connection to their roots, adding a nostalgic touch to their signature sound.
Iconic Chronic brings a dark and atmospheric twist to the local music scene with their latest offerings. Contrary to expectations of a hip-hop or metal act, this Ann Arbor quartet leans towards shoegaze and ’90s alt-rock influences. Tracks like “Breathless” and “Detour” showcase a moody and evocative band that thrives in the shadows, with lead singer Leah’s haunting vocals taking center stage.
These five acts represent the diverse and vibrant musical landscape of Washtenaw County, offering a spectrum of sounds and styles that cater to a wide range of tastes. Whether revisiting the grunge era, exploring instrumental metal, or delving into folk-rock territory, each artist brings a unique voice to the table, making them essential additions to the local music scene.