The Zen Arcade have released their new single ‘Alone in Monochrome’.The Zen Arcade is a garage rock band from Ireland, composed of three ex-members of The Strypes. Their debut single ‘Don’t Say A Word’ was the flagship release on their own label Dental Records and gained a number 1 spot on the iTunes Singles Chart on the day of release and entered the National Singles Chart at No.12. Extensive radio support across Ireland, the UK, the USA, and European radio stations followed.
‘Alone in Monochrome’ is a breath of fresh air that presents The Zen Arcade’s exciting sound in all its glory. The track reels the listener in with a deep bass refrain and bright indie backdrop while jagged guitar jabs ricochet off punchy drums before breaking into a tropical pedal steel- esque guitar lament. Melodically the track is a tasty slice of indie rock, full of wonderful dreamy tones and vibrant layers, however, a melancholic uneasy undertone expressed through dark lyrics adds a bitter aftertaste, “I left a world that was technicolour, for a plane of existence that was your shade duller.” With each subsequent listen, the track reveals new, exhilarating sounds and melodies that are simply a joy to discover as the band balance edgy garage rock elements with bittersweet nostalgia and a deep sense of loneliness to create a contrasting jolt between the catchy hooks. ‘Alone in Monochrome’ is an absolute delight to listeners ears. Press play and enjoy.
Formed in late 2019 following the dissolution of The Strypes – Cavan, Ireland’s The Zen Arcade have adopted an independent approach that extends far beyond their musical output. Today Friday 4th June via their own Dental Records they release the new EP ‘High Fidelity’; including the brand new single ‘High Fidelity’ alongside last year’s debut single ‘Don’t Say A Word’, and an exclusive episode of their own podcast – ‘Higher Fidelity’. The band’s debut single ‘Don’t Say A Word’ released in October 2020 saw The Zen Arcade pick up extensive airplay in Ireland and the US, peaking at no.1 on the Irish iTunes singles chart and ranking at no.12 on the Irish National HomeGrown Chart by end of trading on release day. Having started life as the intro to their ‘Higher Fidelity’ podcast, the band’s second single, ‘High Fidelity’ will be released on 12″ bubblegum pink vinyl as part of ‘High Fidelity EP’
‘High Fidelity’ is a musically striking and cleverly thought out EP that provides a keyhole glimpse into the boundless talent The Zen Arcade have to offer. The jingle, single and title track ‘High Fidelity’ kick starts the EP. Bright and drenched in sweet, catchy melodies with tight harmonies and infectious clap along feature, the band pull out all the stops to ensure this tune stays in your head all day. Driven by a punchy drum progression and raw bass grooves, the song surges with adrenaline. The Zen Arcade’s deft musical prowess is on full display in this charming gem. However, it is the well-coined phrases within the lyrics that steal the show “My heart will always pound in 5.1 surround sound” – love it!
The band’s debut single ‘Don’t Say A Word’ swiftly follows. A favourite here at Indie Buddie, this brisk slice of musical mastery is sure to get even the most timid person up and dancing. Boasting sharp, resounding guitars and frantic bass lines, this tune is a thrilling burst of alternative rock with glorious pop sensibilities that will leave you craving for more.
The Zen Arcade also provide a unique experience, an exclusive episode of the band’s ‘Higher Fidelity’ podcast where they discuss the making of ‘High Fidelity’, the magic of vinyl, the lyrics, along with their Sonic Seconds segment. ‘High Fidelity’ is a real treat. The band put a lot into creating The Zen Arcade experience, and the result is insightful, intelligent and fun.
The Zen Arcade are honing their sound perfectly. Their artistic approach to music, clever lyrics and wonderful knack with melodies leaves much to be admired.
Speaking about ‘High Fidelity’, The Zen Arcade elaborate: “High Fidelity has gone from jingle to single and theme song to hit song. This piece of music originally heralded the start of an episode of Higher Fidelity but now heralds the start of an episode of success. The track was written indoors, recorded in vain and released in case. It details the relationship between a cinephile with a lot of boxsets and their partner with a lot to catch up on.”
I caught up with Evan Walsh from The Zen Arcade to discuss the release of the bands debut single ‘Don’t Say A Word’. We talked about their podcast Higher Fidelity, Peter O’Hanlon’s lyrical wizardry and what they have planned for the coming months.
Cavan garage rock band, The Zen Arcade, have released their debut single ‘Don’t Say A Word’.To Celebrate they have released a brand-new video to go along with the track.The band formed in Late 2019 and is comprised of 3 ex-members of The Strypes whose stellar rise saw them tour 3 critically acclaimed albums all over from Glastonbury to Fuji Rocks and feted by all from Jools Holland to the Arctic Monkeys before calling it quits.
Showcasing brisk melodic hooks and sharp instrumentation The Zen Arcade have created a unique, exciting 90’s alternative rock sound with ‘Don’t Say A Word’; a dynamic, energetic track ready for blasting from your speakers. This neck snapping track speed balls in on frenzied guitars, pounding drums and a rampant bassline as the band fill out the song beautifully creating a chaotic swelling sound. It’s an instant shot of adrenaline, fizzing guitars ricochet off a brawny rhythm while psychedelic murmurs simmer in the background while a pop steeped melody sweetens the song’s aesthetic.
There are wonderful musical moments hidden within ‘Don’t Say A Word’ to delight the listener with, from melody changes to distortion and a few other gems such as whining synths. Each subsequent listen reveals more and more and subtly displays The Zen Arcade’s musical prowess and deft use of instrumentation. Ready for manic moshing this infectious, frantic track is a sublime debut and exciting glimpse of what The Zen Arcade has to offer.
Speaking about the video shoot Pete O’ Hanlon says: “The video was shot in a shed, stars the band, abuses a projector and was directed by a tripod. It showcases the latest in digital regression and artfully combines the bare minimum with low light, undoubtedly inspiring the inevitable low-resolution revolution.”
The band express how “Don’t Say A Word is a mantra for the muted millions. Time now for the monosyllabic among us to rise up and remain silent!”
Watch the video for ‘Don’t Say A Word’ below
Author : Danu
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
