Griffen Handshake – All My Friends Wanna Be Doctors (2022)
While the duo Griffen Handshake technically formed in 2019, the foundation of this musical project was long in the making. The brainchild of a sibling duo, the punk rock band was wading in the brothers’ musical waters from middle school onwards. Growing up under the same roof, Millen and Arjun Schuchert began playing punk rock in their basement, performing at local School of Rock shows and, eventually, releasing music as Griffen Handshake.
Influenced by artists like No Doubt, Nirvana and Green Day, the lads are focused on getting to the point without any flowery bells and whistles. Now, at the ages of 23 and 20, Millen (guitar and vocals) and Arjun (drums and vocals) share their authentic, original and outstanding music. The latest addition to their well-received discography is the single ‘All My Friends Wanna Be Doctors’.
Produced in collaboration with recording engineer Evan Yester and Metropolis Studios John Davis, ‘All My Friends Wanna Be Doctors’ is a superbly crafted compositional masterpiece. Following their well-received debut album My Box, ‘All My Friends Wanna Be Doctors’ is brash, fierce and a little “in your face”. Pounding drums are merged with powerful guitar riffs in an aggressive arrangement. Interestingly enough, while the punk rock aggression is evident throughout, it is melodic as a punk song – flowing in its angst and abruptness.
What I find intriguing about ‘All My Friends Wanna Be Doctors’ is the sweetness of the vocal execution. I don’t mean there is a sweet sentimentality about the vocals, but there is a charming Green Day or Blink 182 lilt to them. It’s difficult to describe, so, honestly, it just needs to be experienced to fully appreciate Griffen Handshake. I always say there are describe songs and listen songs and ‘All My Friends Wanna Be Doctors’ is definitely in the latter.
For more from Griffen Handshake check out their official website, Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
