By Daffs (@TwoDaff)
Formed in 2019 and consisting of James Hallam (Vocals & Guitar, Matt Webster (Bass Guitar) Kyle Sales (Lead Guitar & Josh Clarke (Drums) ADR Records very own Matilda Shakes describe themselves as a 4 Piece anthemic indie rock band from Sheffield, but I think they are much more than this,
You only have to listen to tracks like ‘Fairground’ ‘T.I.M.E’ and the marvellous ‘Ride the Lightning’. Anthemic – yes, Rock: most definitely but there is something else, a definitive indie undercurrent almost Kasabian-like, complementing the (dare I say it) ’70s rock influence. It works well…no it works full stop.
Massive, loud screaming guitar solos and downright dirty riffs underpinned by pounding drums and bass lines really make for an adrenaline-fuelled experience. But that’s not all, the vocal is strong, very strong and fits perfectly.
In 2022 they have already released two well-received singles in ‘Shakedown’ & ‘Up All Night’ and they do what they say on the tin. Matilda Shakes are due to release a new single on the 24th of June, ‘Fast Lane’ which will be available on all major streaming platforms.
“This is a 100mph ride that leaves your head spinning”
I had the pleasure of a sneak preview of this latest anthemic track from the brilliant Matilda Shakes and to be honest, I feel it’s their best yet. This is a 100mph ride that leaves your head spinning.
From its intro vocals the thunderous bass chugs and rumbles relentlessly whilst their signature raucous guitar riffs cut in. The pace is relentless, it’s proper rowdy rock n roll. The guitar riffs are heavy, almost dirty, and they just drive it.
Vocals are powerful, almost snarling, with just the right amount of distortion to give it an edge and cut through the guitars, bass and the pounding drum beat. It’s frenetic but it all blends really well.
The chorus just takes off and will leave you behind if you’re not up to speed, really powerful, adrenaline-fuelled rock. It is fantastic. The pace is only lightened by a quick pit stop mid-section before you are off again thundering into the distance.
You can almost envisage the Wacky Races characters running from the inhabitants of Jurassic Park with its reference to Dastardly and Muttley and good old T rex.
“I can see this causing a riot live”
If you have a need for speed this is for you, if you like it loud this is for you, I can see this causing a riot live. But it’s got to be loud. I can see this on the Grand Prix show…if Soccer AM can put bands on, why not?! It fits perfectly, it definitely deserves a podium place. Just don’t take my word for it, you need to hear it for yourselves.
Recently nominated for the best-unsigned band at the recent Exposed awards the band are due to appear at the HMV Empire Coventry for the Awayday Radio 2nd Birthday bash. In addition, they are also appearing at the Fringe at Tramlines warm-up at the Frog and Parrot in Sheffield.
Matilda Shakes have a social media presence and can be found at all the links below:
https://www.facebook.com/Matildashakes/
https://www.instagram.com/matildashakes/?hl=en
http://matildashakes.com/
