Classic grunge vibes bring through fearlessly honest reflections on the seemingly unshakable grip of alcoholism – deadwater quickly bridge the gap between band and audience, with the brilliantly unedited and powerful Purple Crosses.
Having taught himself guitar during the COVID lock-downs, deadwater’s front-man injects a refreshing edge of realness into modern alternative rock, and this rings loud throughout both the raw energy and lyrical vulnerability of Purple Crosses.
Self-defined as a ‘muddy and unfiltered’ sound, deadwater’s music actually stands tall as nostalgic for its clear stylistic links to a simpler era. This distorted and distant yet anthemic mood connects from the get-go, grunge-like and comforting for its weighty embrace. Soon afterwards, however, it’s the vocals and conceptual depth that guide things – traits that brilliantly elevate the passion and embrace of the completed track.
Refreshingly humble when talking about their approach to music, the brief yet striking uplift of Purple Crosses speaks volumes on behalf of both the musicianship and humanity at the heart of the deadwater sound. If anything, the release seems far too short, evolving intensely across two minutes and nineteen seconds, then dropping off into the abyss at the very peak of its rising anticipation. Having said that, it’s far better to leave your audience wanting more, and in reality – there’s a clever artistic intention to every aspect of Purple Crosses.
An impressive debut, to say the least – a track that begs for you to witness it in a live setting. Purple Crosses intertwines desolation and hope, as it explores the concept of recovery and the overwhelming desire to escape the hellish grip of addiction. Well-worth delving into – I look forward to hearing more.
Find deadwater on Instagram & YouTube.
