Here at the Send Me Your Ears studio today, we’ve been listening to the latest single from The Pulltops. Wide Awake was released on August 18, 2023, and for fans of 80s-influenced rock and pop, this is most definitely a track for you!
Showing huge versatility from the previous track we listened to (Stronger), Wide Awake draws on nostalgia and big 80s sounds, whilst managing to remain current and engaging.
Wide Awake is an anthem for those who are ready to take charge of their lives and overcome obstacles. With its dynamic sound and relatable lyrics, this song has the potential to captivate and empower.
The song comes straight in with a fast-paced full band sound. We can hear 80s Gary Numan/ The Cure influences here, and we love how the song is picked guitar-led. The bass guitar is upfront and powerful without in any way dominating. You’re going to want to dance to this – or at least nod your head in appreciation!
We also love how effortlessly Wide Awake drops in and out of half-time sections. With synths and incidental guitars, extra vocals and perfectly-placed harmonies. This is a punchy mix with some superb use of 16-beat percussions to accentuate the choruses.
The guitar solo is simple but effective and sits perfectly in this style of music, giving a nostalgic touch, with great use of effects giving it a distant yet full sound.
That chorus is going to get stuck in your head. It’s super catchy and we loved it! We even spotted the occasional early James Hetfield moments in the vocals, and the very last vocal line is worth waiting for – it almost sounded as though Freddie Mercury was singing it!
Ideas from our ears
This is a high-energy song with great production. A bit of balancing in the low end could be achieved with a cut around 55Hz and a boost around 80Hz. In the vocal track, a small cut in the 500Hz-1kHz range and a boost in the 5-7kHz range could increase the vocal presence in the track. As always, these are just some ideas from our ears.
Final thoughts
We’ve loved everything we’ve heard from The Pulltops so far. Impressive, consistent, nostalgic 80s pop/rock, we’re excited to watch their progress.
https://thepulltops.com
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https://open.spotify.com/artist/1bqalaTP6ItTbf8L0BBcbU
https://soundcloud.com/user-9752245
https://thepulltops.bandcamp.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@thepulltops
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