Opening with a hypnotic guitar riff that churns steadily across the entire track, 'Pins' finds itself situated amongst the grittiness of the record's existing singles, with heavy reverb and 90's grunge influences in both the song and visualizer alike. Although this track leans more melodic than the post-punk clamour of 'Nobody's Coming To Save You', 'Party Lines', and 'Nothing Happens Twice', its lyricism navigates self-reflection and desire; 'Pins' steps back from the political through-line of these tracks and provides a balance that positions the band to be as capable of thrashing commentary as they are of honest vulnerability.
It's an exciting deviation from the album's direction so far, suggesting an even rawer edge to their forthcoming release than initially expected, and prompting some sonic comparison to the likes of Fontaines D.C.'s 'Skinty Fia'.
The contrast of the track's boxy drums and deep distortion is a definite standout, as Pierce O'Callaghan's punchy beat punctuates each lyric and anchors the track through its fuzzy buildup. Dan Hoff's vocals nestle carefully in the noise, circling the refrain, "I want it / I need it / Your love is the meaning", but are no doubt as dynamic as ever, emerging at the song's peak and providing that basement musicality which has become a hallmark of Gurriers' sound.
With the release of their second LP and its accompanying tour just on the horizon, 'Pins' promises a deeper, darker turn in their discography and marks an evolution from their debut that really ought to cement them as one of the best breakout bands of the last few years.
Liesel Bradbury
@lieselbwrites / @lieselinthealps
Image: 'Nobody's Coming To Save You' Official Album Cover