SINGLE REVIEW: Sunshine Riot - Looking at the Past
Sunshine Riot tells the hopeless story of Death Row convict John Presscot (who is apparently a fictional character and not the useless British MP) on new single "Looking At the Past".
On the surface 'Looking at the Past' is a grungy, un-tempo somewhat chaotic, somewhat well-formed tune with elements of country and a splattering of raucous post punk energy. There's fuzzy guitars that increase in fuzziness as the tempo of the song builds, euphoric drums and vocals that are raw with a melodic country twang and Americana feel.
However, look a bit deeper and 'Looking at the Past' is a harrowing tale of poor life choices and leaving it too late to change. The story finds John gambling, smoking and generally making bad decisions before committing the ultimate crime and being sentenced to death for capital murder. Although staunchly against it I have a morbid fascination with the death penalty so the song really had me intrigued.
Once sentenced John realises his "fate was done and the worst was yet to come" finding himself in limbo, a fate worse than death. "Now he walks down purgatory with his hands by his side" continuing to confess to not feeling worthy of help and guidance prior to his poor choices "God don't think I'm worthy". It's a disturbing listen and gives an insight into the feelings of a Death Row prisoner who often spends 30 plus years in no man's lands before finally reaching their ultimate fate.
I'm a big fan of storytelling in music and Sunshine Riot have delivered something that is likeable and danceable but also an insightful and thoughtful listen. I'm a big fan!
