I can be ugly I can be strong
I can be proper I can be wrong
I can be lovely or I can be gone
the thing that will haunt you is still hanging on
March 2024 marks a pivotal moment for Los Angeles’ VR SEX, the innovative project of Noel Skum, aka Andrew Clinco of Drab Majesty. With the unveiling of their eagerly awaited new album, Hard Copy, through Dais Records, VR SEX showcases a newfound unity and maturation as a band. This album stands out as a testament to their evolved collective identity, brimming with a fervent passion for music and a keen, incisive social commentary that draws from the raw, unapologetic essence of punk rock. Hard Copy emerges not just as a musical venture but as a candid reflection of the times, encapsulating the band’s love for the art and their critical engagement with the societal landscapes they navigate.
With “In Great Detail,” VR SEX transports listeners back to the halcyon era of Stiff Records, embodying the punk flair of The Damned and the avant-garde allure of Chrome and Wire. This track, however, is not just a nod to the late 70s; it also weaves in the gritty, rebellious spirit of late 80s and early 90s Alternative Rock. Influences from the likes of Pixies, Swans, and Sonic Youth permeate the music, adding gauzy layers of psychedelic guitars to melodic depth and complexity.
The visuals accompanying the band’s music further accentuate this rich tapestry of influences, offering a window into their tight-knit camaraderie and an intimate glimpse into their world. This Super-8 cinema verité piece stitches together candid snapshots of the band—whether they’re unwinding in green rooms, meandering through urban landscapes, or indulging in the playful chaos that tour life brings. This unguarded portrayal not only showcases the band’s genuine camaraderie but also mirrors the eclectic influences that shape their sound. It’s a raw, heartfelt ode to the moments that define them, both on and off stage, emphasizing the unity and shared joy that have become the bedrock of their creative expression.
Watch the video for “In Great Detail” below:
Following the success of their 2022 LP Rough Dimension, Clinco made the bold decision to expand VR SEX into a full-fledged band. This transformation embraced a collective spirit and a shared vision for their music. The band’s dedication to this new dynamic was evident as they booked studio time in Glassell Park, exchanged ideas, and embarked on the journey of creating an album that truly represented their collective voice. With a no-holds-barred approach, the band immersed themselves in the creative process, spending long hours in the studio to bring their vision to life.
Guitarist Mike Kriebel, a seasoned engineer with a wealth of experience in the punk, goth, and garage underground scenes, spearheaded the album’s production. The band’s commitment to authenticity shines through in their decision to ban plug-ins and record most instruments directly into the board, adding guitars through a meticulously arranged setup to achieve a sound that is both intoxicating and genuine.
Hard Copy presents a collection of 10 riveting tracks, blending sneering psychedelic punk with catchy power pop harmonies. The album delves into intriguing narratives, from sex doll romances to tales of glue-sniffing femme fatales, showcasing the band’s unique storytelling prowess.
“My goal is always to load up every take with as much sound as possible in one pass,” says Clinco.
Pick up Hard Copy here.
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