Listening
to “Overtryer” the first few times, the word “contrast” frequently came
to mind as a defining characteristic of the single from Aggressive Swans, a
Munich-based duo. Not surprisingly, the band explains that contrast plays an
important role in effectively conveying the song’s lyrical depth and
sensibilities.
Both
the vocal approaches and the tempos are powerfully different in a comparison of
the first verse against the chorus, which begins around 1:11. In the verse, the
falsetto vocals evoke a Radiohead-like quality, delivered with an unhurried
pace that contrasts against drumming marked by high-yet-controlled intensity. Prior to reaching the chorus, the vocals drop
to an octave that is more accessible for vocalists who lack the vocal range of
Aggressive Swans. But the tempo doesn’t accelerate until the chorus, when the
focus shifts from the message to the emotion. Quoting the band, “We wanted
strong contrasts between the intimate moments to fit the introspective nature
of the lyrics.”
The
instrumentation is also shifted. Until the chorus, drums control the instrumental
support. In comparison, the drums remain strong during the chorus, but guitar holds
the spotlight.
More
than two minutes into “Overtryer,” the falsetto delivery returns and the sequence
is repeated. But the compositional expertise of Aggressive Swans hasn’t been yet
fully revealed. Around 3:18, the song is momentarily relaxed, but soon crescendos
into a fierce ending.
The
members of Aggressive Swan are Janko RaĊĦeta (guitars, production) and Matija
Chlupacek (vocals, bass). Additionally, the credits of “Overtryer” identify Leander
Widmoser as the drummer. The band’s bio is interesting:
“Two-piece alternative Rock band based in Munich, Germany. Classically educated musicians Janko Raseta and Matija Chlupacek write music without compromises. Sound of Pop and Rock, at times infused with the spirit of the 80’s, is the outcome. Expect defined riffs, expressive vocals, and improvised psychedelic constructs.”
“Overtryer”
by Aggressive Swans
“Two-piece alternative Rock band based in Munich, Germany. Classically educated musicians Janko Raseta and Matija Chlupacek write music without compromises. Sound of Pop and Rock, at times infused with the spirit of the 80’s, is the outcome. Expect defined riffs, expressive vocals, and improvised psychedelic constructs.”
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aggressiveswans/
Website: https://aggressiveswans.com/
Bandcamp: https://aggressiveswans.bandcamp.com/
Website: https://aggressiveswans.com/
Bandcamp: https://aggressiveswans.bandcamp.com/
