EP REVIEW: Vaughanstrosity - Memes and Dreams
As Meredith Brooks once said "I'm a little bit of everything all rolled into one" which is the only way to describe Vaughanstrosity's debut EP "Memes and Dreams". His music doesn't just blur the lines between genres it erases them altogether. It doesn't fit anywhere or compared to anyone. Just when you think it makes sense he throws a curveball and leaves you thinking WTF! It's as though he's drawn lots on which genres to include in a song. It sounds like it shouldn't work but his chaotic mash-up's of style are some of the most innovative and addictive tunes out there!
Boasting indie, electronica, metal, pop, punk, D'n'B plus a whole host of other things "Memes and Dreams" has attitude, angst, tenderness, erratic chaos, lighthearted moments, big anthemic sounds and more understated thoughtfulness. Vaughanstrosity has left no stone unturned, no avenue unexplored.
"Memes and Dreams" is a voyage, an adventure through pandemonium. Its disarray, its confusion and I fucking love it!
Let's break down "Memes and Dreams" four tracks:
Single 'fl0w' provides frantic chaos with plenty of twists and turns. Punk-ish tones mix with nu-metal that at times also take on a very indie feel. It infuses a playful, tongue in cheek sound with pensive, thought inspiring words that detail the idea of running out of empathy for someone who refuses to change and mend their broken ways. The introduction of classical strings for its finale further adds to the diversity. It's an electrifying tune with big noise and massive impact!
'Friday Night' is an electronic, D'n'B laced tune with cool vocal effects and melodic Pop Punk elements. It boasts an insanely catchy chorus matched with some frenzied screams. Beefy riffs and epic drums result in a soaring anthem that's sure to blast your ear drums! Lyrics share feelings of wondering if a relationship is working, questioning if all the time apart, waiting to see each other is worth it. Opening a wound when you're alone that closes as soon as you're together.
'When the Party Ends' introduces understated acoustic indie vibes with tender vocals before storming into grand anthemic metalcore growls teamed with the stunning, gravely classic rock vox of Ethan Beatie. The different voices work so well together mixing fierce with melodic. 'When the Party Ends' is another track to feature the notion of wondering when you'll see someone again.
EP ender 'Broken Hearts and Empty Bottles' comes in on a soft lo-fi start changing into a chilled out Ibiza sound before punking it up with the chanted title line. Electronica combines with a bit of mathcore leading to the dramatic, fun party metal chorus kicks in. Although lyrically probably the weakest track on the EP it's an addictive end to what has been a rollercoaster ride of a record!
To summarise 'Memes and Dreams' features a bit of everything musically while the lyrics tend to focus on love, wondering, yearning and confusion. It's a strong debut from Vaughanstrosity. It's exciting, enthralling, exhilarating, packed with intrigue and enough twists to keep even the most wandering mind captivated from start to finish!
