Modern Guilt – You’re Welcome (2021)
Described by Clunk Magazine as “…fun, gritty and daringly infectious”, one would assume Modern Guilt is set as an energetic indie-rock group; however, this is as far from the truth as possible. Yes, they are gritty, fun and daringly infectious, but the quintet is also completely genre-defying. Only two songs and a debut EP in, Jaz (vocals and guitar), Andreas Podda (lead guitar), Dan Williams (bass), Glyn Evans (keys/organ) and Scott Thomson (drums) might not have the largest repertoire but they are definitely one of the best on the scene. When heavy-hitters like Primal Scream’s Bobby Gillespie call you “real good”, you know you’ve done something right. The latest addition to their critically acclaimed discography is You’re Welcome.
With their well-received single ‘Get Along’ (read our review here), Modern Guilt won all of our hearts making us question if they could top it – they did! Nodding to indie-rock, punk, rock ‘n’ roll, Motown and surf-rock, the lads traverse a plethora of styles in the debut EP You’re Welcome. From the 70s punk-inspired ‘One-Fifty’ to the indie-rock ‘Hoping For The Hoping’, there is a burst of energy taking you on a musical journey.
Showcasing their innovation and eclecticism, the pounding drums, dynamic guitars and sensational keys adopt various styles as the tracks progress. We see psychedelic loops in ‘Double Denim’ but rock ‘n’ roll grooves in ‘Hoping For The Hoping’. It’s amazing to see what five young gents can do with a few instruments. Yet, one constant is Jaz’s unique vocals. Obscure and intriguing, but with a strong underlying warmth, Jaz effortlessly complements the melodies. Moreover, the melodies may be breath-taking, but it is the vocals that are soul-stirring and evocative.
I would say Modern Guilt’s sound on You’re Welcome is reminiscent of the Rolling Stones, but it wouldn’t be fair to this talented group. Taking on old-school rock with a contemporary twist, Modern Guilt’s music represents the evolution of rock throughout the ages – or at least from the mid-20th century to now. The group is a revolution in rock and will be (if not already) a standard future musicians hope to meet.
Side note: Modern Guilt released official music videos for ‘Hoping For The Hoping’, ‘Get Along’ and ‘Double Denim’ which can be viewed on their YouTube channel. Viewer discretion is advised as all videos use strobe-like lighting effects and rapid image transitions that can trigger seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy.
For more from Modern Guilt check out their official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
