Horsehands’ latest creation, Pissing Rain, runs the sound spectrum from straight-up punk to electro-infused jams--and that’s just in the first two minutes of the EP. The vocals are reminiscent of some bizarre Bowie/Krill collaboration, which, after thinking about it for awhile, would be one hell of an idea. “Yon” was definitely my favorite of the songs--hard, fast guitarwork, complete with some pop-punk palm mutes and a bridge that seems to take off into the stratosphere before abruptly grabbing you by the collar and yanking you back into the mosh pit. I also appreciated the strategic placement of the synths/keys in songs like “Dinner Time!”--they provide well-timed accents, elevating the sound of the songs without overpowering the rest of the music.

If you’re itchin’ to get a physical copy of Pissing Rain, the band will be celebrating their tape release show on May 9th at Lily Pad in Cambridge, MA. For more info about the event, click here.

-Dan McMahon (@dmcmhn)

 

The label’s first showcase will be happening on June 11 at Middlesex Lounge in Cambridge, MA. This is shaping up to be one hell of a show. In addition to celebrating the release of Harris Hawk’s new record, this show has been fused with one of Eye Design’s classic “Treat Yo Self” events. In case you’re unfamiliar with the concept, "Treat Yo Self" involves bringing together several talented bands and local artists (and the occasional food vendor), allowing artists to display their work, all while listening to some kickass music and eating locally-made food--cool, right? Well, it gets even better. Boston Hassle, yet another local, DIY-inspired show/community promotional organization, has recently teamed-up with Eye Design to produce the Treat Yo Self Series. In other words--this event will unequivocally rock.

The show starts at 9PM on the 11th. 21+, $5 cover. For more info, check out the event’s Facebook page.

If you want to hear a good example of a category of music specific to the 21st century, and probably specific even to 2013, check out Horsehands’ “Sirs” EP. Rhythmically and melodically dense but with quick, upbeat songs and plucky guitar lines; “Sirs” doesn’t remind me of anything so much as music that’s coming out right now. The singer sounds to me like a bizarro-world David Bowie on Ziggy Stardust. If for no other reason, check out the album for the cool cover art, which is a picture of two men speed-walking away from a wall of lava that’s coming down the street. Picks include Ocho, Shirts and Skins, and A Spat. - Geoff Noble