(Editor’s Note: Every once in a while we’re asked why there aren’t more Don Caballero puns around the site, and you know what? Maybe we haven’t lived math rock, maybe that’s on us. Either way, the Singles Broken Up column is meant to function as a speed date of sorts for readers short on time that still find themselves thirsting for the new and notable, so… ready to mingle? Excellent – this week we’ve got you covered with drops from Neptune, Verse Metrics, Then Came Hupapaan, Mototaxi, and Sewnshut.
Neptune – “Yesterday’s Face”
Given that Neptune just announced a new record called Play Some Music, we thought we’d break the ice with that. It’s definitely not casual stuff – within minutes you’re captured by the song’s vacant but visceral atmosphere, inspiring a total fugue state. If they haven’t already, this lineup needs to do music for a horror film or videogame ASAP.
Verse Metrics – “Spillage (Robin Southby Remix)”
This remix from Robin Southby of Maybeshewill is WAY more dexterous and expansive than we thought it would be, and not because we didn’t think it would slap – of that, we had little doubt. We just weren’t prepared for something electronically enveloping on the level of Gallops or Luo where we get to thinking about other dimensions and lose ourselves entirely.
Then Came Hupapaan – “Frying Man”
It’s been several years since we’ve talked about these guys, but thankfully they’re back with a vengeance and serving up even hotter prog-laced cuts of math rock than they were in 2019. Apparently this is a remote project where members live in different parts of the U.S., but you wouldn’t guess it based on how well the band’s frenetic but accessible sound come together.
Mototaxi – “Ramona :(”
This Brazilian emo math rock nugget has some serious layers to it – the first bit is kind of vintage post-punk meets 90’s post-hardcore, but it slows, stops, starts again with total command. Also, for anyone frequenting math rock social media, you just might recognize the bass tones of Pedro Proença whose covers of Delta Sleep and Tricot make us wish we practiced more every day.
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Sewnshut – “Threat”
You know, Sewnshut is one of those rare bands that makes us want to listen to even more metal than we already do. “Threat” continues to develop the chops that made their debut so memorable – super unique guitar, a vicious rhythm section, and perfectly grating vocals, so when the track got to 01:55 and appeared to be OVER we were devastated, but we’ll do our best to wait for more.
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