Boxteles – Relevant (2022)
I work at a coffee shop. The music I pick usually is pleasant alternative rock, singer-songwriter, or indie pop. It’s the kind of vibe you’d expect walking into a wood-panelled coffee shop. Boxteles’ EP Break-Ups, Bevs & Thinking Ahead, for instance, fits in perfectly with its alt-rock sound. I love setting a good vibe in the shop. But I’m an introvert. A six-hour shift in the service industry leaves me a little drained. As soon as those doors lock, I switch alt-rock out for something a little heavier. Thankfully, Boxteles have me covered there as well, with their new single ‘Relevant’.
Released August 19, 2022, ‘Relevant’ adds an edge to Boxteles’ discography. The switch was caused by the group’s disdain for the current state of the music industry. All four members (Tom Bedford, vocals/rhythm guitar; Ollie Harrison, lead guitar; Alex Richardson, bass; Oliver Perry, drums) have worked in the music industry for years and understand its shortcomings quite well. Their frustration is readily apparent in their new single.
The grit in Bedford’s voice is a new angle, and it helps to underline the band’s feelings about their subject matter. Over heavy bass and aggressive drums, he roars about the industry’s exploitation of both artist and listener. The lead guitar wails its frustration distantly as if it’s struggling to be heard above the cacophony. The bridge hits: electronics create confused crowd chatter. Noise builds in volume. Bedford silences the roar with a roar of his own: “Hey you! Am I relevant? Do I speak to you?” Then his bandmates join their voices for the song’s closing in a last jab at the establishment.
As a final note, Boxteles’ cover art wonderfully reflects the evolution of their sound. Engaging and amusing artwork about patchwork fabric dolls has matured. The artwork for ‘Relevant’ is simple and poignant: dark grey background, a dull red heart, and tiny white font below the heart. It’s striking and reflects their feelings on the establishment well. Boxteles are back with an agenda, and the music business better watch out.
For more from Boxteles check out their Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
