I’ve been following the great Pacific Northwest band Bliss Foxx for a few years now and have always been impressed by the tremendous growth in songwriting and musicianship each time a new release enters the world. The band is based out of Oregon (Eugene and Portland, to be exact) and engage in a visceral, in your face brand of rock ‘n roll that is indebted to the great artists that set the scene in the region. The band has had some lineup changes in recent years – the songs being released on this new EP The Sting featuring a member who has moved on (to normal life pursuits) and new member Conner O’Shea. Singer K. Rose is at the center of the project and exudes confidence and charm in equal measure. The band switched up instruments and writing parts for this release – it could be considered a “Covid Remnants” type album, as some of the songs harken back to that era. The songs were mixed and mastered by Thaddeus Moore (Frank Black) and recorded mostly live. It’s the best and most cohesive release from the band to date.
Elliott Smiles kicks off the album and is inspired by a dream Rose had about the late, great Elliott Smith. One of my personal favorites of all time, I appreciated that background. The guitar leads were added in after the original track was laid down. Drummer Dakota wrote some parts that fit the song after it was thought to be completed. It adds an enchanting vibe. Grungy in places, it’s a killer track. Tell sounds like a hit from the 90’s alternative music boom. It also features a stunning video. Sighing vocals with a strong melody – it reminds me of The Breeders as filtered through the Pac NW. Raw is the most aggressive song on the album and just might be my favorite. Explosive punk rock, absolutely stunning. Apathy closes out the release on a slightly more mellow vibe. Stunning guitar work and incredibly catchy vocals. This song will stay stuck in your brain long after it has ended. I can’t wait to hear what comes next from this band!
You can buy the EP here.
Verdict: Modern Riot grrrl
For Fans of: Sonic Youth, St. Vincent, Sleater-Kinney, The Raincoats, Bikini Kill, The Breeders
Tracks:
- Elliott Smiles
- Tell
- No Fuego (no no no)
- Cupid
- Raw
- Apathy