Some bands just have ‘it.’ There is a rush for me when I hear those bands for the first time, and it happened here in a big way. I heard the band thanks to my finely tuned YouTube algorithm knowing to show me new music videos by new bands. Show Pony’s songs turned into one of those nights where the songs went on repeat multiple times. They have released their debut EP, serving up a five-song platter of excellence. Hailing from Winnipeg, Show Pony have brought together ingredients from different genres to create a sound that is both fresh and familiar. The band are a trio who manage to create a full sound with just one guitar and drums.
Opener ‘Dead and Gone’ provides a great introduction to the album with hypnotic vocals in the verse working perfectly with the guitar riff and drums. It builds into an explosive chorus that will stick in your head. I described the band’s sound to someone as hints of punk, guitar rock, pop hooks, and a scoop of new wave. All those influences come together here. Lyrically, these songs hit hard and deep as they dive into the stages of grief and honestly remind me that I am still working through some of these from losing my Dad last year. Next up is ‘Lightning’, possibly my favourite from the album, where I can feel some early Blondie combining with X. This song has hook after hook throughout it. There are subtle nuances in the vocals that really elevate the song. Closing out the first side of the vinyl, ‘Makes No Difference’ brings in some great backing vocals in the chorus, and the musical change through the chorus provides a great change in tempo. The urgency continues to build in the song and leaves the listener feeling the train move faster and faster.
‘Superstar’ snaps out of the speaker with a killer guitar riff and reminds me a bit of 90’s bands like Fur, NY Loose, and the Goops crossed with some hard-hitting Brit-Rock flourishes a la Grand Theft Audio and a dose of Wargasm UK as the vocals remind me a bit of Milkie Way. ‘You Just Know’ closes out the album with another great rocker coated with extra sticky earworms.
At five songs, the band experiences the one criticism you probably don’t mind as a band… I simply wish there were more songs here. It provides a great introduction to the world for the band. Musically, this is timeless, and, years down the line, we hopefully get to look back on this EP and consider how the band evolved over the years. Definitely recommended!
‘Show Pony for the Masses’ is available now. Buy Here
Author: Gerald Stansbury
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