Single reviewsThe Other Side Reviews

The Pulltops – Carry On (2025)

Drawing together the natural talent of musicians Tom Crowell (guitar) and Mark Pierret (guitar), The Pulltops offer eccentricity, eclecticism, originality, innovation, and unconventional boundary-breaking pushes of rock in their music. Taking a gander at previous releases, such as ‘Waiting Here’ and ‘Red Eye Open Sky’, the US-based pair intricately weave raw human emotion, existential issues, and moving melodies with artistic mastery. The most recent addition to their critically acclaimed discography is the single ‘Carry On’.

Following the well-received 2024 single ‘On Christmas Day (I Saw Three Ships)’, The Pulltops traipse into 2025 with ‘Carry On’. Shifting from a 90s pop-rock sound to a rush of alternative rock, ‘Carry On’ retains the signature retro-ness of The Pulltops dragging us to the 90s; however, obscurity breaks through in a synth-tinged sheen showcasing the pair’s diverse nature.

For me, the new single is heavier, harder and grittier than The Pulltops’ previous songs. No leaning toward Weezer or Blink 182, but rather adopting a bolder, brasher form in ‘Carry On’. Interestingly, as much as the song is breathtaking and slightly gut-wrenching in its delivery, the interspersed shimmer of synths weaves eeriness into the crashing drums and soaring guitar melody.

Melodically, ‘Carry On’ is affronting, like meeting a futuristic giant robot who you know is going to wreck the room or toss you about without a care. Yet, as overwhelming as this image is, there is sincerity lingering in the figure, so you know it’s an intimidating robot but he’s also encouraging, friendly, and hopeful. The Pulltops explain:

“Built on heartfelt lyrics that confront pain and struggle, the song transforms into a powerful message of perseverance and hope… an undeniable call to rise above and reclaim one’s own path.”


In addition to the single, The Pulltops released an official lyric video for ‘Carry On’. You can view the video below or on their YouTube channel. Please note that this video uses lighting effects that can trigger migraines and/or seizures in people with photosensitive epilepsy. Viewer discretion is advised.


THIS VIDEO USES LIGHTING EFFECTS THAT CAN TRIGGER SEIZURES IN PEOPLE WITH PHOTOSENSITIVE EPILEPSY
VIEWER DISCRETION IS ADVISED

Find out more about The Pulltops on their official website, Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, TikTok and Spotify.

This artist was discovered via Musosoup #sustainablecurator


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