Track of the Day: Tube Amp 101 – Strawberry Smile
Combining the sounds of alternative rock, grunge, post-punk and indie-rock, Tube Amp 101 has a rather genre-defying style. While there is a contemporary feel to their sound, the group uses a base old-school sound (think Blur, The Smiths and Buzzcocks with hints of Beatles) mushing together the past and present. Featured in A&R Factory, Xune Mag, Roadie Music and Happy Mag, the Australia-based duo is reaching audiences on an international level. As our Track of the Day, we have Tube Amp 101’s ‘Strawberry Smile’.
One of the tracks from their EP True Friend, ‘Strawberry Smile’ is nostalgic, ambient and intoxicating. While the single might be considered a guitar-driven track with prominent riffs, the underlying piano is what draws my attention. Adding softness to the single, the incorporation of a piano contributes to the hazy ambience. A delicate harmony exists between melody and vocals, but the juxtaposition of lyricism with melody showcases Tube Amp 101’s innovativeness.
Joined by his daughter Kate, the elegant female/male conversation is endearing with sincere tenderness. Yet, while the instrumentation forms hazy warmth, the song touches on the “heavy loss of a relationship break-up.” Passion is noted in the voices, but there is also a hint of raw honesty and desperation making it spine-tingling. What I find particularly intriguing is certain moments reminding me slightly of Linkin Park…but the softer side of Linkin Park’s songs. I don’t know, it’s just my impression and I have no idea what I’m talking about.
In addition to their EP, Tube Amp 101 released a music video for ‘Strawberry Smile’. Unfortunately, the lighting created a strobe effect so I was unable to view the video. It can be seen below, but if you have photosensitive epilepsy watch with caution.
WATCH AT OWN DISCRETION
For more from Tube Amp 101 check out their official website, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Spotify.
