Ashes symbolize both endings and new beginnings, and Atlanta-based emo sextet Sister Sleep has embodied this duality in their latest EP, "In Bad Faith." This collection of songs is a cathartic exploration of personal struggles, queer anthems, and a defiant stand against negativity. As lead singer Barry Shelton proclaims, "All I want is to provide representation for people like myself," and this EP is a testament to that mission.
Sister Sleep is not just another band; they are a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the influence of bands like My Chemical Romance, Taking Back Sunday, AFI, Silverstein, and The Used. These influences pushed the band members to form Sister Sleep, even two decades later. Comprising Barry Shelton (vocals), Kit Savvy (piano/vocals), James Holloway (guitar), Matty Breesworth (guitar), Chase Cowan (bass), and Riley Mikles (drums), this sextet is more than just a musical group. They are a vehicle for connecting with their audience and advocating for empowerment in the LGBTQ+ community and body positivity.
The EP opens with "In Tenebris," a Latin phrase that translates to "in darkness." The lyrics vividly describe feelings of suffocation, frustration, and discomfort. The song's atmosphere is a mixture of despair and determination, symbolizing a struggle against inner demons. The refrain, "And the way to the end is right over the edge," hints at a precarious journey, and the repeated "Shhh, they can hear you" highlights the inner turmoil that often remains hidden from the world.
"The Arsonist" explores destructive relationships and individuals who thrive on chaos. The track confronts those who sow discord and revel in deception. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of someone who sets fires and then watches them burn, without remorse. This song carries an air of finality and a declaration of severing ties with toxic influences.
"Target Practice" portrays a sense of urgency and chaos, with lyrics like "No way out, no use in trying to regulate." The song discusses feeling trapped and under constant scrutiny, mirroring the pressure to meet societal expectations. It's a battle cry to break free and regain control, to defy the role of a target in someone else's game.
This track is a fierce, unapologetic queer anthem that confronts hatred and negativity. It's a bold stand against discrimination and prejudice, exemplified by the lines, "You say that we better make way, that we're too late. But there's blood on your hands you can't deny." "The Venom You Spit" is a powerful, anthemic response that refuses to back down in the face of adversity.
"Lotus (At Night)" shifts the focus to introspection and personal struggles. The lotus, often associated with enlightenment and purity, becomes a symbol of the desire for inner peace. The lyrics express the hope of finding solace and relief in the midst of turmoil, making it a contemplative and deeply emotional track.
The closing track, "Mirrormasked," delves into trauma, self-acceptance, and the weight of past experiences. It explores the struggle to come to terms with one's past and the impact it has on the present. The repeated refrain, "I’ll Take all the blame," represents a desire for self-forgiveness and healing. The song encapsulates the complex journey of self-discovery and the search for a sense of identity.
Each track on "In Bad Faith" contributes to a narrative of resilience, empowerment, and personal growth. Sister Sleep's lyrics and music provide a space for listeners to reflect on their own experiences and connect with the band's unapologetic message of self-acceptance and defiance against negativity.Sister Sleep is a band on a mission, and their music is a call to action. With their fierce sound and unapologetic message, they invite you to join them in their journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and resilience. "In Bad Faith" is more than music; it's a testament to the power of community, love, and the enduring human spirit.
