“Nightmare Muscle” is the new single from New York, by way of Boston, based multi-instrumentalist Fusilier. Blake Fusilier spent his time in the Boston DIY/punk scene before moving to Brooklyn to focus primarily on his self-titled solo project. His songs follow in the genre-defiant footsteps of Yves Tumor and co-producer Bartees Strange leaning on old tastes and sensibilities to deliver a new message. The track is a delightful but physical jam that demands to exist only on its own terms.
Through years of experience as a musician, Fusilier clearly has had time to reconcile his influences with his own musical identity. There is a clear affinity for the hard hitting, distorted rock of the 90’s as well as the smooth, bouncy rhythms of funk. Despite his instrumental proficiency, the most striking quality of this track is the melodic attention to detail in the vocals. The “Old news” backing vocals that punctuate the syncopated introduction supplement the distorted guitar lick while adding a ghostly flair. The track quickly opens up space with synths padding the soft vocals, emphasizing Fusilier’s range and vocal texture. The absolute achievement of this song is the power of the chorus. The “Black Hole” chant sounds gigantic while the driving guitar and drums demand a head nodding, fist pumping response from the listener. Fusilier’s bass on the second verse harkens back to more funk leanings, retreating from the straightforwardness of the hook. The second chorus opens into a triumphant bridge that feels cathartic and therapeutic all in one.
In his impressive new song “Nightmare Muscle”, Fusilier is able to distill several styles with a melodic meticulousness into a powerful sing a long. The track is a welcome return or an excellent introduction to an artist you will continue to want more and more from.
