SPIES – When Lightning Strikes (2025)
Known for their high-voltage, energetic, engaging, and intoxicating live performances, Austria-based SPIES easily ensnare the senses of audiences. Yet, while their gigs are electrifying with infectious melodies, their confident stage presence transcends to rush out of listener’s speakers in studio recordings. This is my first taste of SPIES running through my headphones, but I can honestly say listening to their music is like being front and centre at an outstanding show. Join me as I delve into their latest single, ‘When Lightning Strikes’.
The first release after the critically acclaimed 2023 album Playing With Matches, ‘When Lightning Strikes’ captures vintage pop-punk with a contemporary edginess clinging to the sonic wrapper. Joined by Dominik Mayr (bass) and Fabian Natter (drums), Magdalen Löffler (vocals) and Daniel Fisher (guitar) paint a vivid picture of raw, soulful passion for pop-punk music with the new track. For me, a strong reminiscence to Paramore exists – particularly with Löffler’s vocals sounding so much like Hayley Williams; however, as much as the old-school similarity exists, the fiery sparks breathe a sound that may be distinctive to SPIES.
Aptly named, listening to ‘When Lightning Strikes’ is like being struck by sonic lightning, but in a great way. Crashing drums match a bold bass, while Fisher’s guitar soars with scorching riffs. Interestingly, while each instrument binds with harmonic unity, the individuality of each element enhances the brashness and boisterousness of pop-punk music. Moreover, it is this duality of individuality and harmony that makes ‘When Lightning Strikes’ such a powerful composition.
Well-arranged and pitch-perfect in its rambunctious way, ‘When Lightning Strike’ has a palpable sense of rebelliousness oozing from the fiery melody. Melodically, the track is intense, but its overall weightiness stems from the lyricism. Aligning with a whirlwind of exuberant feistiness, ‘When Lightning Strikes’ is an exciting expression of “…themes of spontaneity and the unpredictability of life…”
This is my introduction to SPIES and it’s clear that the duo is set to win hearts with exhilarating songs. Highly recommended!
In addition to the single, SPIES release an official music video for ‘When Lightning Strikes’. You can view the video below or on their YouTube channel. Please note that this video uses lighting effects that can trigger seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.
VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED
Find out more about SPIES on their Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Spotify.
This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator
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