Hear The Barking In A Rocking Sound....

The Otherness - a four piece hailing from Patagonia, Argentina have recently released their self-titled debut album with a loud and melodic sound, and an angry but ultimately positive message to convey.

The band's musical roots are planted firmly in rock and roll which is evidenced from the outset. Slick guitar riffs, perfectly constructed harmonies and the occasional scream are the order of the day here. The two main vocalists (brothers Martin and Gonzalo Cativa) switch frequently during songs, and the first track 'Feedback Calling' is no exception with dueling vocals contrasting each other, lyrically and musically.

A common theme across the album is the disaffection and dislocation with aspects of life in the “Information Age”. Songs such as 'Selfie' and 'I Bet He Knows', in particular, pour heaped scorn upon the obsession with obsession, with withering observations and stinging critiques on an age in which nobody seems to be connecting fully with what’s right there in front of them.

The anger and dismay is evident, although the charm and sense of fun of the band lifts what could have been a bit of a whine. Positivity is here in spades, and the music and overall “sound of the band” underpin the forward-looking outlook. They don’t finger point, they point out, then beckon you in (if you wish to of course!).

The band have soaked up a wide variety of influences and distilled them all into a unique sound. They clearly have a deep knowledge and understanding of what makes a great pop song ('Roundabout' is perhaps the catchiest of them all) and the intricate, cool as fuck lead guitar parts and melodic bass lines on songs such as 'Bit of Fun' and 'She Feels the Soul' are incredibly pleasant to the ears. The rhythm section is also a sound to behold, the band are as tight as a hangman's knot, and it’s all wound together by some incredible drumming. The album changes in tempo frequently and has some really interesting beats and rhythms in the mix. They are clearly well rehearsed and unafraid to maneuver their way through different genres, from 50’s rock n roll to New York post-punk they stamp out their own sound and sing about what they feel.

All in all, it’s a great debut album. Passion, excitement and liberal doses of vitriol make for a heady brew and that’s what this album delivers. The changes in style both from a musical and lyrical point of view, keep your mind busy and your ears attuned. It’s rock and roll and it’s all good fun.

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