Koalra – Water’s Push (2021)
Known for energetic, high-paced melodies laid over engaging and evocative lyricism, Koalra is one of the most intriguing punk bands to hit my virtual desk. Yes, the US-based quartet and I have crossed paths in the past, but each single shows such originality and innovativeness that I become all giggly when I listen to the different singles. The latest addition to their discography is the single ‘Water’s Push’.
Following their well-received singles ‘Hooked’ and ‘Dear Daylight’, Koalra takes you by the hand dragging you to the noise-punk of the 80s and 90s. Influenced greatly by the uplifting sounds of Sonic Youth and Ween, the group combine high-powered, distorted instrumentation with grunge-esque vocals. It is no different in their all-encompassing new track ‘Water’s Push’.
Maintaining the thrashing energy of previous critically acclaimed work, ‘Water’s Push’ has a more eclectic tone to the track. Combining pounding drums with dynamic guitars, the Chicago four-some build a slightly frenzied soundscape plunging a person into a river of turbulent water. While we swirl about in the whirlpool, the Joy Division vocals add a twinge of quirkiness that makes one heady from its spirited execution. I guess, listening to Koalra is just becoming lost in the mind-blowing music.
What I find particularly interesting about ‘Water’s Push’ is the seemingly disjointed vocals working both in union with the instrumentation, but also as an individual entity completely on its own plain. It all comes together well, however, I feel the vocal tone with its English-inflexion add an unearthly obscurity to the track. Haunting, surreal and highly evocative, Koalra’s new single slams into your brain, reverberates down your spine and leaves you covered in goosebumps.
For more from Koalra check out their official website, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and Spotify.
