Following on from their 2023 EP VR Porn, Marvin’s Revenge take a more confident stride with their latest. Hugs From Grandma is a hearty progression through their dirty world, providing more than enough meat to chew on in only three tracks. Alice Beard talks you through the offering.
From the outset, Hugs From Grandma takes a bold and assertive stance. Even from the first few bars it becomes immediately obvious the band are heading down a different road. This single in particular leans towards more 90s melodic ‘pop’-punk sensibilities. Meaty fuzz-driven chord progressions shine alongside its propulsive rhythm section here, the rawness grabbing you by the throat as the elements take hold. As introductions go, here is one which is more than pleasant to digest- the light appetiser to set you up for a heartier meal later.
The onslaught continues into the following Big Snake. This juggernaut track remaining subtle yet agitated. With its gritty, biting guitar riffs we are led further into something murkier than before. It carries a sinister presence, yet the spacey-ness lends a hand in lifting the piece to some uncovered ground. It’s got the sort of sleazy charm that makes it all the more enticing.
This short collection of tracks is littered with influence. The knotty combination of harsh riffs and rich basslines feels reminiscent of Pixies or Fugazi. The elements of noise rock, grunge and shoegaze nostalgia collide to create something of a brighter calibre than previously offered. This is an accomplished evolution in sound for the trio.
Eating Flowers proves a fitting close, combining the band’s more sensitive side with some characteristic moodiness. At first it holds its cards close to its chest, but it soon unfurls into something uniquely alluring. There is still a tension which sets in, but the track remains restrained in all the right places.
Taking a leap into some unmarked territories, this could be their tightest release to date. It's got the allure that leaves you itching to go back for seconds. I for one can't wait to see what the band hopefully have in store for us in the near future.
Marvin’s Revenge will soon embark on tour to share their spoils with the rest of the UK, including their biggest Nottingham headline at Saltbox on 12th October. You’d be silly to miss out. Grab a ticket while you still can!
Alice Beard
Listen to Hugs From Grandma in full here
Edited by Alice Beard
Images courtesy of El Maddison via Marvin’s Revenge, video courtesy of Marvin’s Revenge on Youtube
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