Bristol band’s new single turns frustration into catchy anthem
Wakey Wakey Rise & Shine, a band hailing from Bristol, has recently released a new track titled “There’s Less Trouble When You Stay At Home” via Velvet Echoes. The song is a raw expression of frustration born from frontman Smudge’s personal encounter with law enforcement. Mistaken for his own attacker, Smudge transformed this Kafkaesque experience into a new-wave anthem filled with jagged riffs and a rhythm that captures the essence of a drunk person on a tightrope.
Formed in 2020 through a series of serendipitous meetings at college, the Green Man festival, Gumtree listings, and the Bristol gig circuit, Wakey Wakey Rise & Shine has always danced on the edge of irreverence. Their upcoming EP, “Rear Meat,” dives deeper into this ethos, blending the spirit of Devo and Talking Heads with the raw energy reminiscent of King Gizzard and the Lizard Wizard.
Recorded without a click track by bassist Duncan and guitarist Cameron in the historic basement of Bristol’s The Louisiana, the band’s music captures a live-wire energy that is both primal and infectious. Drummer Seamus describes their mission as subverting the monotony of everyday life with a blend of humor and raw intensity that resonates through every distorted chord of “Rear Meat”.
In a recent interview, Smudge and Seamus shed light on the inspiration behind their music, citing Smudge’s frustrating run-in with authority as the catalyst for their politically charged track. The band’s evolution from post-punk to math-rock explosion is evident in their latest single, which sets the tone for their heaviest work to date. Despite the serious themes in their new material, the band maintains a playful approach, as seen in their EP title “Rear Meat,” striking a balance between humor and social commentary.
Their playful yet muscular sound reflects the eclectic music scene of Bristol, where genres blend effortlessly, and creativity knows no bounds. From psychedelic frills to post-punk grit, Wakey Wakey Rise & Shine’s music is a testament to their refusal to be pigeonholed, allowing them to explore new territories while staying true to their irreverent spirit.
In conclusion, Wakey Wakey Rise & Shine’s latest release is a testament to their evolution as a band and their ability to channel personal frustrations into powerful anthems that resonate with listeners. Their willingness to challenge authority and experiment with new sounds sets them apart in the music scene, making them a band to watch in the coming months.