- BLOODS’ sophomore record, Feelings, is a blazing supernova of sugar punk glory which wouldn’t feel out of place playing while the end credits roll on Ten Things I Hate About You. The ten tracks harness the irresistible power of early 2000’s pop-punk, glazing it with the sticky sweetness of front woman MC‘S vocal hooks.
Bring My Walls Down was the spunky first single pulled from Feelings, and was released way back in 2016. It acts as the perfect precursor to the record, opening with fuzzy guitars, propulsive percussion and gruesome lyrical motifs. it’s the first pupil dilating sugar hit of many on the record.
Only three tracks in, Talk is the crowning thrash-y, ear-wormy, jewel in BLOODS’ bubble-grunge crown. MC’s take no prisoners lyricism is cradled by layers upon layers of duelling guitar melodies and a bass line that just won’t quit. While further along, Slow Break sees a welcome interruption in pace, the four piece reeling it back. They employ reverb laden vocals, a sweeping bottom end and an impressive, '80’s glam rock inspired guitar run. Closing out the record, BLOODS bid farewell with Part Of Me, a love letter to those, romantic or otherwise who help make up the best parts of ourselves.
Feelings was incrementally completed over the course of eighteen months. The record documents a year and a half of four lives in flux: including the breakdown of a long term relationship, running out of money and a member moving to Melbourne. In an industry that often commoditises despair, BLOODS clap back with Feelings - ten tracks of super-sweet, cohesive and more importantly, joyful songs. Better yet, mum says you can have seconds, cause this one won’t rot your teeth.
- Fiona Priddey.