Drawing inspiration from the eclectic strains of classic post-punk, ethereal shoegaze, innovative new wave, and the brooding notes of early 80’s goth, Portland’s Princess Ugly comes to life as the symphonic brainchild of J. Christopher-Rome (wordsmith/vocalist) and Christopher Moncrieffe (melody maker/instrumentalist). For their hypnotic latest single, “Break Every Room,” Cat Powell-Hoffman joins them on vocals.
“Break Every Room” is a realm where robust beats cascade and somersault, mirroring contemplations, dreamscapes, and confessions. The syncopated, austere tones of the guitars play a tense duet with a wandering, fraught string arrangement as they echo whispered realities; the zeitgeist of our era. The song weaves a tale of contradiction, a narrative of desperation and an insatiable hunger for more. It’s a stance of defiance—hands on hips, the shattering of every room, and a growing hunger with each passing day.
The lyrics delve into the speaker’s struggle to navigate through their sensitive and difficult nature. Their journey is filled with pride and a relentless quest for something more, something tangible they need to consume, which could be experiences, knowledge, or emotional growth. The repeated refrain “I need to find more” underscores a desperate quest for personal fulfillment or answers, suggesting a dissatisfaction with their current state. Themes of deception and protection also emerge, painting a picture of an individual wrestling with self-image and the concept of truth.”Our anger and frustration can seem distant, reserved and soft-spoken, but it’s there,” says the band. “Discontentment and bitterness fueled up to the breaking point. Self-control maintained on a tightrope. The calm before the storm.”
Ultimately, their resilience and strength lie beneath their challenges. The complexity of their character is evident, manifesting in hunger for more and constant evolution. The atmospheric resonance of Princess Ugly, carved out by their artful use of minor chords and otherworldly synth pads, kindles echoes of Boy Harsher’s haunting tones. Intermingled within this sonic landscape are foreboding growls, adding an ominous undertone that recalls the dark intensity of Skinny Puppy. Their unique blend of sounds merges these distinct influences, resulting in a riveting nostalgic evocation and innovative progression.
The visual accompaniment to the track offers a fascinating blend of the band’s personal footage and creatively distorted elements from public domain sources. This amalgamation weaves together an intriguing visual narrative that resonates with the band’s unique aesthetic.
Listen and watch below:
Birthed within the artistic hub of Portland, “Break Every Room” is a brainchild of Princess Ugly, skillfully crafted and recorded amidst the vibrant hum of the Drop Dead Ugly Recording Studio, located in the heart of Portland, Oregon. The symphony was further polished through a collaborative mixing process between Princess Ugly and MIDICANCER, followed by the meticulous mastering touch of Kevin Nettleingham, right across the Columbia River in Vancouver, Washington. The single follows Start Below, released last month, as well as their two previous singles released in 2021: the vampire-themed Hunger, and their cover of Tones On Tail’s Go!
Find “Break Every Room” on Bandcamp below:
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