Chicago has a rich history when it comes to punk and rock music. Fostering groups like Rise Against, Sincere Engineer, and many more, the scene is never void of music to listen to. Now there is a new group you can add to that list with Violets. Composed of members of Naked Raygun, The Methadones, and Blood People, there is a lot you can expect from this group. The one thing to not expect is that they sound like their other groups.
Brought together by drinks preluding a Fontaines D.C. show, three of the five members started discussing the prospect of writing new music together. For guitarist Bill Stephens it made sense to work on a new project as “It had become apparent that Naked Raygun wouldn’t be playing anymore”. He contacted bassist/vocalist Fritz Doreza, who was in a similar situation also being a part of Naked Raygun, to be in the group. The two, in their time with Naked Raygun, became friends with Micahel Soucy and Simon Lamb through playing shows with The Methadones. Vocalist/guitarist Aly Jados solidified the lineup having met Doreza during a Metallica cover set. “She’s absolutely amazing and really fit right in with the rest of us,” says Soucy.
Thus far the group has only played a handful of shows and released one song, “The Tower”. Even though there is only one track out, it is clear from it that you want to keep your eyes on Violets. Like said, this song lets the listener know that this project is different from previous ones the band members have been in. That opens up a Pixies like sound where they combine catchy riffs with a rock n roll backbone. You hear it at the start of “The Tower” with a fun riff leading the charge into the first verse. The guitars on the song are nicely layered all throughout with multiple listens being awarded by hearing a new aspect of the multiple layers of each guitar all throughout the track. The ending of the track brings upon one last solo that rides throughout the entire ending in a smooth and seamless manner, the years of experience masterfully showing.
During the break of the song, there is a section where the bass becomes more prominent and it is a groove that really adds to the sound as an overall. The drums too provide a great backbone to the song with rolls sprinkled throughout. Drummer, Michael Soucy, from the start of the track lays down a beat that is brought out just enough by the mix to really pop no matter how many listens deep you are on the song.
Aly Jados’ vocals are nothing short of phenomenal. Like Michael Soucy said, “Her range is unparalleled.” Her range is brought out nicely by this song with the vocals remaining in a calm tone during the verses and really striking hard during the chorus. What especially will hit is the fact that her vocals are familiar but different allowing an inviting listen on that for those listening. The backing vocals from Doreza in the chorus compliment Jados’ lead vocals with the blend of the two being seamless.
After one or two listens it is easy to catch on to the vocals of the song making it anthemic in the process. It is hard to not find a line in the song that is relatable and Jados’ vocals help strengthen the lyrics when the vocals go from calm to shouting in the verses and choruses. The chorus, “I couldn’t take it, anymore; I’m gonna make it out alive; Chasing down not running from; What’s weighing on my mind,” is one that especially sticks with its relatability. What helps is that it comes later in the song when everything is reaching its climax so the song just has that extra oomph to it.
Violets may only be getting started but it is a start you’ll want to keep your eyes on. They continue the great tradition of Chicago punk music with their debut self-titled EP dropping May 2.
