It’s come to my attention that there may well be something in the way we view or listen to new music, the applied perspective, that heavily changes the way it affects us. Something about pretending this is an old band from the 90s, and you’re just getting into the history of the genre, gifts it a whole new power.
We tend to judge indie bands by the likelihood of them continuing these days, of them being able to commit to music, to afford to tour, to stand the test of time and be featured in magazines, but that’s not realistic, and it’s a great way to miss out on some genuinely amazing songs and live acts.
The playing field has changed. So let’s try something different.
Here’s a band heavily influenced by the tone, riffs, songwriting, presentation and vocal identity of bands like Smashing Pumpkins. They’re a slept-on gem with the imagery, character, stories, sentiments, melodies and passion of classic punk and alternative rock, and Under The Rain promises a video and single that’s intoxicating, evocative, and uplifting. It takes you somewhere completely new, and feels comfortingly nostalgic at the very same time.
Seb Rock City arrive from a journey fully immersed in music and creative expression. Seb was formerly known for his work with Jo-Jo & The Teeth, and now devotes his time to a band who, thanks to experience, practice, presence and self-awareness, have captured a sound beautifully balancing sonic rock ambiance with catchy, original hooks, fresh lyrics, and organic musicianship that’s no-doubt second to none in the live setting.
Under The Rain is stunning, euphoric at its peak, a kind of creative fusion of punk, grunge and alternative rock, with lush melodies, catchy guitar riffs, and an unmistakable, authentic and interesting leading voice.
Featuring Chris Wilson of Parasiite on drums, Max Battista (Jo-Jo & the Teeth) on bass, recording and mixing, the band are seamlessly united at the helm, the final fifth in particular is sensational – a perfect unity of layers, a passionate explosion or crescendo, complete with the live crash of real drums, and a soaring guitar solo that’s bold, soulful, and perfectly in tune with the energy and poetry of the song.
If you’re London-based and wanting to support the real music scenes of tomorrow, as an effective antidote to the rise of AI-generated slop – get yourselves down to a Seb Rock City show. Stream the video, the songs, and follow the band on Instagram.
Tell a friend. Support real music. Be the change you want to see in the world.
Single out July 17th. Find Seb Rock City on Instagram. Official video edited by Livio Giustolisi, with cinematography by Dave Pros.
