Archives:
Strategies
Earlier this year, Strategies released their self-titled, debut EP. The band’s lineup consists of guitarist Paul Lask, (The Ghost, Tight Phantomz) drummer Neil Hennessy, (Lawrence Arms) and singer Brian Moss, (Great Apes, Hanalei, The Ghost). We recently spoke with Paul and Brian and talked about the band’s origins, which trace back to the early months of the pandemic. We also discussed their sound, as it incorporated elements of indie rock and Midwestern emo, not to mention a host of other influences. Additionally, we conversed about how the EP was recorded, some of its lyrical content, Strategies’ future plans and more.
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Hanalei
Last month, Hanalei released its first full-length in over a decade, entitled Black Snow. We spoke with singer/guitarist Brian Moss, (The Ghost, Great Apes) and talked about what inspired the creation of this album. Upon learning that he was going to be a first-time father, Moss felt compelled to begin writing as a means to deal with the fears of bringing a child into such a turbulent world. We addressed his concerns regarding climate change, income inequality, social media and more, and how these topics influenced the lyrics on this record. Additionally, we discussed how the album was recorded, the overall style of its songs, what Moss has planned for the future of Hanalei and more.
Continue Reading…Great Apes
Photo by Katie Hovland
This Friday, San Francisco’s Great Apes will release their second full-length via Asian Man Records, called California Heart. We spoke with singer/guitarist Brian Moss about the album’s writing process and its concept. We also talked in detail about what it was like recording with Jack Shirley, as well as where the record’s title comes from, its overall style and more. This album finds the band combining heavier elements with pop tendencies to create a wide-ranging, complete punk record that redefines their sound. If for some reason you haven’t previously listened to Great Apes, do yourself a favor and check them out now. Continue Reading…
Great Apes
Photo by Katie Hovland
This fall, Great Apes will release their debut full-length, entitled Thread, via Asian Man Records and Side With Us Records. The band plays a straightforward style of melodic punk, that’s highlighted by earnest vocals and skilled musicianship. For a relatively new band, they display a surprising amount of versatility and confidence. In short, Thread is one hell of an introductory album that’s not to be overlooked. We recently met with singer/guitarist Brian Moss and talked about the writing and recording of their record. We also discussed their summer tour with All Eyes West, why they’re eager to work with Asian Man, and more. Lastly, be sure to check out an exclusive stream of the song “The Edge of the Western World” at the end of the interview. Continue Reading…
Great Apes – Self-titled 7”
Say-10 Records – Release Date: 4/24/12
Brian Moss, former front man of The Ghost, Hanalei and Olehole, is fronting a new four-piece called Great Apes, hailing from San Francisco. Moss polishes his unique singing style but also trims the fat for a new, minimalist effect. On Great Apes’ debut 7”, Moss offers the most melodic and upbeat songs of his musical career. “Sam’s Song” opens the 7” with feedback and rhythmically-backed guitar notes before Moss’s gritty and urgent voice weaves everything together. There’s a catchy bridge where the lead guitar gets just a little time to shine before it all jumps back to the chorus. “Detonator” is a yearning, upbeat pop punk song, utilizing palm-muted guitar chords and transitioning to open ones, creating a bouncy, driving momentum. “I wanna be your instigator/I wanna be your detonator/I wanna be your…your detonator.” The lyrics are simple, direct and sung with sincerity. “It’s a Trans’ World” is a simple and fast, catchy four-chord tune sung with an air of liberation. Moss’s somewhat erratic and unrestrained emotional style of singing shines on this song about fine lines. The chorus sings, “They wanna make my choice/they wanna take my voice/it’s just natural, it’s a trans world/they wanna smother me with their insecurities/girls will be boys and boys will be girls.” This self-titled 7” is the first in a three-part series to be released this year. There will be additional label collaboration with All-In Vinyl, Mission Social Club and one more that hasn’t been announced yet. Currently, the band is streaming a few teaser tracks on its Bandcamp page. Stream “It’s a Trans’ World” below.
[audio:http://www.jadedinchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/00-2-This-is-a-Trans-World.mp3|titles=It’s a Trans’ World]
– Jason Duarte
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