Artists are naturally the sum of their influences, and what makes an artist unique is how they interpret and articulate said influences. An alt-pop artist with an upbringing in emo and punk music, Brian Wight or Friend Group's no-holds-barred approach offers an unpredictable foray into a lifetime love affair with music.
His aforementioned musical upbringing adds a distinct grit to his otherwise radiant pop, with much of the lyrical content focussing on the darker shades of emotion. The production, however, typically brings the emotion into a compelling balance by setting the heavy narratives against upbeat, irrefutable grooves.
"Mechanism" is a perfect example of the sonic dichotomy and the perfect introduction to his sound. The Nashville-based talent outlines the lyrical motivations in the email press release, stating that, "'Mechanism' was written about the ways of coping during the perfect storm of a serious breakup happening right at the start of a global pandemic and self-isolation." Going on to note, "As if living alone during the quarantine wasn't enough, the loss of love only turned up the volume of the silence."
A problematic set of circumstances indeed, but once the track unfurls from the luscious introduction, the energy is flipped on its head. Confident, in-your-face vocals work in total synergy with the stripped-back, funky production; a change of pace that'll rattle around your head until you hear it again.
"Mechanism" is out now on Friend Group's new album, You're The Sea And I'm The Moon.
