Album Review: Skegss – Pacific Highway Music
- Skegss' 'Pacific Highway Music' marks a new chapter for the band, showcasing a more polished and refined sound that captures their experiences along the Pacific Highway and offers a soundtrack for road trips.
- The album reflects the band's evolution from their surf-rock roots, featuring standout tracks like 'Stuck in Cheyenne' and 'High Beaming,' which blend moments of introspection and resilience with upbeat, positive energy.
- Each track on the album tells a story of the band's journey, aiming to provide listeners with a sense of connection, emotional depth, and an escape from the world through the evocative and cohesive music.
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In the ever-evolving landscape of music, some bands manage to transcend their earlier personas, evolving into something more profound and meaningful. Skegss, an Australian rock band known for their surf-rock roots, has embarked on a new chapter with their latest album, 'Pacific Highway Music'. This album is not just a collection of songs; it's a sonic journey that echoes the band's deep connection to the Pacific Highway and the emotional rollercoaster they've experienced over the years.
The Birth of 'Pacific Highway Music'
Benny Reed, the lead vocalist of Skegss, has always had a special affinity for the Pacific Highway. "I’ve driven that stretch so many times... I don’t know how many times, but a lot more than, like, the average person, I reckon," he says. This connection began practically as a cheaper alternative to flying but has evolved into something more profound. The album is a reflection of these drives, capturing the essence of sun-drenched days and coastal adventures in a series of floaty, pop-rock songs.
A New Chapter for Skegss
Skeggs' earlier work was characterized by its rebellious teen spirit and loose production. However, 'Pacific Highway Music' marks a significant departure from this earlier style. The album is polished and refined, offering a tight, grungy sound that is full of sunburnt energy. The tracks are designed to be the perfect soundtrack for a road trip, not just appreciating the Pacific Highway but also celebrating the journey the band has taken over the last decade.
Tracks That Stand Out
One of the standout tracks is "Stuck in Cheyenne," which tells the story of when the band was stranded in North America during a snowstorm. The song opens with the line "It's so hard to follow your dreams," and despite the challenging inspiration, it remains upbeat and optimistic. This track, along with others like "High Beaming" and "Out of My Head," showcases the band's ability to turn moments of sadness and introspection into positivity and warmth.
High Beaming: A Tribute to Resilience
"High Beaming" is an album highlight that stands out from the central Skeggs sound. Drawing on 90’s alt-rock and fellow Australians Silverchair, this song brings a new dimension to the band’s music. The repetition of the album’s title and Jonny’s rolling beats bring everything to a close, creating a narrative cohesion that was missing from previous works. This track is a testament to the band’s growth and their ability to experiment with new sounds while maintaining their signature style.
Kelly Heroes: Embracing the World
"Kelly Heroes" feels like Skeggs adrift, no longer tethered to their surf rock roots but embracing the pull of the world. The track still carries the classic Skeggs ingredients: a touch of angst, solid riffs, and Benny’s trademark gravelly vocals supplying the singalong hooks. However, there’s a renewed energy and subtlety in the textural layers and warmer sonic palette.
The Story Behind Each Track
Each song on 'Pacific Highway Music' is woven with stories of the band's experiences. From the mesmerizing drive along the Pacific Highway to the challenges faced on the road, every track is a reflection of their journey. Benny Reed reflects on the new material, hoping that those who need to hear it will appreciate it. He believes that the album can provide an escape from the world, allowing listeners to zone out and visit their own imagination.
An Album of Stories and Reflections
Pacific Highway Music is not just an album; it's a collection of stories that resonate deeply with both the band and the listeners. The songs are designed to evoke emotions and create a sense of connection. As Benny Reed mentions, "I just hope the people that need to hear it, like it. And if they’re on their own and they need something to zone out to, they can escape their world a little bit."
Conclusion
Skegss' 'Pacific Highway Music' is a journey through emotions, reflections, and the band's transformation over the years. From its inception in the sun-kissed drives along the Pacific Highway to the polished, refined sound of the album, each track tells a story of resilience, hope, and the unwavering spirit of Skegss. If you're looking for an album that can transport you to another world and keep you company on your own journeys, 'Pacific Highway Music' is the perfect choice.
