“K: I saw you with a cigarette
You had nothing to say to me.
B: I’m calling up the coast guard…”
Navigating the rich contours of bubblegum new wave, Push! expertly entwines elements of intrigue and audacity. This band doesn’t merely create songs; they engineer an earnest authenticity designed to enthrall everyone from gritty post-punks to hard rock enthusiasts to neon-tinge discotheque disciples, all of which whose personal playlists resemble a collection of radio hits from nearly four decades gone by.
Their sound, a compelling blend of the sleek, gutsy showmanship of 80s powerhouses like Power Station and the tantalizing, playful delivery of Shalamar, also pays tribute to The Colourfield’s intoxicating allure. “Don’t Turn Away“, their latest single, also is hued in shades of The Human League and the pop vitality of Animotion.
“Don’t Turn Away” is a typical romantic-sounding mid-tempo ballad with a gorgeous call and response; its structure showcases how much keyboardist Saeko’s keyboards add to the band. Sweet yet melancholy vocals volley between Brett and Kathleen in the verse with a huge harmonized chorus, something the band introduced to their writing in the past year. Despite its dreaminess, however, the lyrics detail a conversation that divulges a darker underside.
“This was a definitive song for utilizing all members of the band’s strengths,” says Brett. “There’s a Missing Persons vibe to the guitar, and there’s a weight to the beat and riff. We’re very proud of it! We wanted an 80’s rock song reminiscent of MTV golden era and I think we got close enough while keeping our moody sounds.”
Listen below:
Push! originated in 2017 with a darker, blusier, saxophone-driven post-punk vibe. In 2021 they moved to a more dual vocal attack, and with the addition of keyboards in 2022, they really established a signature sound of harmonies and attitude. With influences from post-punk, hard rock, indie, and new wave, it’s a striking sound live!
Steve Bryant produced “Don’t Turn Away,” with Rich Crescenti mastering the track.
Look for the song on Spotify here. Plus, Push! will be playing New York City’s Sleepwalk on June 1st with Bunny X. Get your tickets here.
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