Los Angeles-based, Milwaukee-bred alt-rock band Big Mother Gig returns with a ‘destructive,’ dynamic, psychologically-tinged single, “Obliterate.”

“And you think I’m dim, just take a look / Practically your reflection I am.” Whoa, just a sampling of the biting, angst-laden lyrics of alt-rock band, Big Mother Gig.  Big Mother Gig is currently composed of Richard Jankovich, Micah Lopez, Albert Kurniawan, and Mike Datz.  The Los Angeles-based, Milwaukee-bred power-pop/punk rockers aren’t newbies – they reformed in 2017, following a 20-year hiatus! Truly, it’s never too late to come back. Worth noting, the press has given them some substantial love including Alternative Press, Paste, New Noise, Impose, ALLTHINGSGO, Substream, Pure Grain Audio, and Skope. Now, this energetic collective is back with a brand-new single, “Obliterate,” influenced by the unfortunate events that occurred in one utterly dark day in Parkland, Florida.

“They’re always granting wishes / They’re always planting kisses all around the town until we / Start building bridges, climbing up a spiral stair.” Heavy – understatement. From the beginning, “Obliterate” feels unsettling, capturing darker, psychologically challenging subject matter.  Sure, the music isn’t ‘pedal to the metal’ initially, specifically the first couple of lines of the first verse, but clearly the mysterious vibe is incredibly eerie and foreshadows what’s to come. It doesn’t take long for restraint to transform into a dynamic rage, led by roaring guitars and gritty vocals, fitting Big Mother Gig’s goals with “Obliterate.”  Those goals include understanding and “coming to terms with white American rage.”

Unsurprisingly, the lyrics are darkly poetic, drenched in angst.  The final verse of the song is my personal favorite and definitely the most troubling. It really captures the ear, particularly considering the influence of Parkland, Florida, exemplifying the “lack of redemption as the perpetrator succumbs to handcuffs.”

“My phantom limb is buzzing / My friends all think I’m bluffing and I wasn’t sure myself until / The cops showed up by the dozen / Flashing lights and battering rams come roaring / Through the door, my head and heart laid bare upon the floor.”

Final Thoughts

WOW – that’s about all that can be said after listening to “Obliterate.” This is superbly-penned and performed record by Big Mother Gig.  As awesome as those amped-up, driving guitars and high-flying, assertive vocals are, it’s the meaningful, relevant message that truly makes this a gem.  Excellent, excellent, excellent!

Big Mother Gig • Obliterate – Single • Sweet Sweet • Release: 7.20.18

Photo Credits: Sweet Sweet

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