Mary Trembles - ps...situation (EP)
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Black and white, these colours are unlikely to conjure thoughts of images depicting things that are diverse, varied or a mix. Yet these are the features of the artwork (or black peppermint stripes) accompanying Mary Trembles’ debut EP, Ps…situation. And not altogether surprising, what is offered by the trio, is a consistent slab of stony riffs and angst-ridden lyrics, that combine to form music that is a dark and evil black, dashed with madman white.
Opening track, “Scene From Below,” is mechanistic in power; as it speeds past the listener and at times resembles Placebo, as the vocals are intriguing in inflection, much like Brian Molko’s trademark enunciations. Add to this mix, the gungy guitar associated with the aforementioned musician’s band, and you begin to notice the similarities.
“Not My Fault” is a ballsy plea giving little space to the sinful, as it is predominantly sans repentance for the wrongdoings that have occurred. This is followed by “Emotional Calligraphy,” which put simply, is paranoia embodied in song.
A furious interlude similar to Betchadupa’s “RT 1090” ensues with “Emerging Signs For Motorists”. However, “Sorted,” is a little like a shopping list continuation of the previous, “Not My Fault” because in hindsight, they instead seem to resemble inventories being checked off rather than actual feelings, and I can’t help but think that both seem a little one-sided lyrically, and overall lack zeal.
Penultimate track, “Fugue,” begins with some teaser guitar riffs. Urgent vocals scream of “it” coming apart at the seams, once again. And if you concentrate closely, you might just see that jumper unravelling and being stripped to the raw ingredient, namely wool.
Final track, “Too Much,” is likely to be a crowd favourite. Due to its infectiousness, I can already see the patrons moshing along to this fun and heavy track.
In sum, the songs tend to follow a basic formula, i.e. strum some violent guitar riffs and combine catchy drumbeats and tight bass to lyrics that mostly tend to skim the surface of the human condition. That said, enthusiasts of the hardcore genre might have a field day with the seven tracks that feel remotely familiar, courtesy of their resemblance to the predecessors on offer. But for my money, I would have preferred a greater assortment of music styles, as variety is the spice of life.
