SINGLE REVIEW: Sonic Silo - One & The Same / Concrete Maze / Better Still'

London’s Sonic Silo may have emerged from the Britpop era, but their sound is anything but derivative. Carving their own identity in the jangly indie guitar landscape, they lean into heavier, more eclectic influences. Across these three tracks, Sonic Silo offers a sonic journey that is as multifaceted as it is captivating.

'One & The Same'

This track sets an unsettling tone from the start, creeping in with sparse, plodding instrumentation that lays heavy, like a dark, looming cloud. The vocals, tinged with a subtle country twang and surrounded by grunge-fuzz textures, weave a haunting atmosphere. There’s a dreamy quality to the layered vocals that contrasts beautifully with the track's weightier undertones. Sonic Silo masterfully shifts the dynamic as the song progresses, introducing a funky beat and a fuller band sound towards the end. This transformation feels natural yet surprising, showcasing the band's ability to traverse moods and styles with ease.

'Concrete Maze'

Where the former track broods, 'Concrete Maze' wastes no time picking up the pace with an instant injection of danceable energy. Bright, splashy drums and infectious hooks lead the charge, blending a catchy Britpop sensibility with the gritty edge of grunge. Despite its upbeat exterior, the song dives into themes of isolation, anxiety, and the unrelenting search for meaning in modern life. Cathartic and thought-provoking, it’s a song that melds its introspective subject matter with an irresistible sense of movement. The powerhouse vocals and electrifying guitar solos make this an emotional and sonic high point, creating a track that’s both deeply resonant and undeniably fun.

'Better Still'

Taking a more mellow approach, 'Better Still' shifts gears with a laid-back, melancholic vibe that draws on elements of alt-rock, blues, and country. Spiky guitars and a harmonica lend a distinct character to the track, while the vocals adopt a more artistic, almost exaggerated style that amplifies its haunting tone. There’s a dark energy here, one that’s offset by the song’s powerful guitars and elaborate solos, which feel both raw and refined. It’s a rich, layered piece that brings out the band’s bluesier side without sacrificing their heavier undertones.

As a trio, these tracks showcase Sonic Silo's versatility and their refusal to be pigeonholed. Whether leaning into grunge, funk, blues, or jangly indie rock, the band shifts shapes effortlessly, crafting a sound that feels dynamic, dark, and deeply considered. This is a return to form for a band that thrives on carving their own path.