Shaven Primates, a darkwave and proto/post-punk outfit hailing from Oxford, UK, ship an iconic affair of introspection and social commentary with ‘Birds Aren’t Actual’, their newest album. 

Shaven Primates – Birds Aren’t Actual

Drawing inspiration from the likes of The Velvet Underground, Kate Bush, Device, Prodigy, Sure, The Conflict, David Bowie, Porcupine Tree and Pink Floyd, the group has crafted a set of darkish, sonically wealthy compositions with a robust subversive edge.

The album opens with “Fade Away”, a mid-paced alt-rock quantity that instantly performs out on the offensive, boasting a pulsating bassline, biting vocals, and well-placed synthesisers. The tune’s near-punkish assault provides a uncooked enchantment to the proceedings, setting the tone for the visceral thought-provoking journey that awaits.

Birds Aren’t Actual is a memorable showcase of considerate post-punk, one that completely blends vivid lyricism and gripping soundscapes. 

“Choice” delves right into a darker and extra gothic sound, paying homage to early 80s goth rock. The tune tackles the delicate topic of suicide and its profound affect on these instantly shut. With symphonic, orchestral layers, and atmospheric bursts of synths, the tune masterfully captures the emotional weight of the occasion, whereas an abrasive, heavy guitar sound offers a further ingredient of roughness.

“Silicon Implants” is a bluesy heavy rocker with intense guitar riffs, a cool groove and rapid-fire rap-like vocals, boasting a contagious refrain and a dynamic bridge. For the lyrics, the band makes use of historic and up to date references to discover how misinformation and manipulation affect the world.

“Unmasked,” however, is a extra laidback piece, focusing extra on environment than energy. The evocative vocals and atmospheric, hazy instrumentation create the right platform for the heartfelt lyrics about autism to unfold, which add to a really haunting piece. 

The title observe concludes the document on a excessive word. A riff-driven alt-rock quantity with a full-on barrage of fuzzy guitars and an infectious refrain, it delves as soon as once more into themes of conspiracy and propaganda. The band’s lyrical prowess shines as they discover the world of misinformation and conspiracies atop a punchy soundscape of post-punk assault.

Total, ‘Birds Aren’t Actual’ is an providing that unapologetically explores the political and private dimensions of the human situation via darkish but infectious indie/post-punk. In the event you admire thought-provoking music with an edge, ‘Birds Aren’t Actual’ is a must-listen, and Shaven Primates are a band to observe carefully as they proceed to make an affect within the impartial U.Okay. scene. 

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Phrases Fidel Beserra