Aubrey – Monster (2023)
Back in February this year, UK-based trio Aubrey found their way into our ears and rattled about our brain for a bit. Now, with much aplomb, Amelia (vocals and bass), Sean (guitar) and Sam (drums) are back with another slice of grunge rock. Formed about three years ago in London, Aubrey string together Nirvana, Smashing Pumpkins, Garbage, Hole and TOOL with a nostalgic blast back to the 90s. However, just as they are reminiscent of yesteryear, a contemporary rock noise shivers in their melodies – refreshingly new but boldly vintage. The latest addition to their discography is the single ‘Monster’.
Following their well-received debut single ‘Bad News’, sophomore single ‘Monster’ is another melody to slither into our ears and rattle our cranium. Sam’s pounding drums crash as Sean’s guitar reaches scorching heights. Amelia’s bass keeps a bold beat as everything weaves together in a moving tune. While the grunge griminess of ‘Bad News’ continues, ‘Monster’ is more upbeat, forceful, dynamic and a toss of sonic insanity. The thing is, despite there being a frenzy of chaotic energy bursting in the melody, a sense of organised calm binds the instruments.
Working with sound engineer Dave Holmes, ‘Monster’ was recorded alongside ‘Bad News’ in a two-day session at East London’s Lightship 95. A unique studio space found on the Thames river ‘Monster’ captures the obscurity of the recording environment in a live session sound. Like a tumultuous wave, the sophomore single ebbs and wans with pounding ferocity.
In ‘Bad News’, Aubrey expressed the rage, frustration and fury of dealing with a toxic relationship. Once again, Aubrey dips into fiery emotions with fierceness in ‘Monster’. Stepping inwards, the single is introspective looking at personal conflict and turmoil. Aubrey explains, “It’s about our personal demons and how we project them onto others and become slaves to our inner monsters… We enjoy exploring and refining different perspectives in our music. Each track is its own story, its own reward…”
With silvery sincerity woven into a hard-hitting bomb of drums, guitars, and Amelia’s heart-rendering vocals, Aubrey astounds us again with their single ‘Monster’. In my review of ‘Bad News’, I noted Aubrey as one of the most interesting and captivating bands I have heard this year; I stand firmly behind this and am eager to hear more.
Find out more about Aubrey on their Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
