Oxford’s enigmatic 5-piece dark-wave, art-rock, proto/post-punk band, Shaven Primates, has just unleashed their latest creation upon the world – “Birds Aren’t Real.” Released today, this album promises to take listeners on a mind-bending journey through a world of dystopian chaos, alternative thought, and personal struggles.
The band’s previous offering, “Child Of Dirt,” was an epic life story, taking five years to write and produce. However, after that monumental endeavor, Shaven Primates felt the urge to explore a new direction, delving into the twisted web of conspiracy theories, propaganda, and madness that permeates our modern world.
“Alt thought” became the central theme of “Birds Aren’t Real,” a term the band coined to represent the mesh of misinformation and alternative truths that seem to spread like wildfire across the globe. Within this backdrop, the album presents three powerful songs that delve into the darker aspects of human society, delusion, and deception. Alongside these, two more introspective tracks explore the aftermath of the suicide of someone close and the challenges of growing up with a mind that doesn’t fit the mold.
The album’s title track, “Birds Aren’t Real,” is a daring exploration of an alternative truth, delving into the idea that birds are not what they seem to be. The song brings to light the notion of a government conspiracy involving cybernetic organisms posing as birds to monitor humanity’s every move. This thought-provoking concept, laced with a Spanish influence and punctuated by punk elements in the chorus, challenges listeners to question what they think they know.
Musically, “Birds Aren’t Real” embraces the band’s signature dark-wave, art-rock, and post-punk sound. With haunting melodies, intricate guitar work, atmospheric synths, and powerful rhythms, Shaven Primates creates a mesmerizing and immersive sonic experience. Each track in the album stands on its own, yet together, they form a cohesive narrative, painting a vivid mental imagery of a dystopian, urban setting that perfectly complements the themes explored in the songs.
Inspired by interviews with controversial YouTubers Nick Fuentes and Baked Alaska conducted by acclaimed documentary filmmaker Louis Theroux, “Fade Away” delves into the rise of fascism within social media. Combining elements of late 70s and early 80s punk and post-punk, the song takes listeners on a journey through the pressures of the modern age, culminating in an emotionally charged chorus that encapsulates the raw emotions that accompany this topic. Guitarist Tom Clark’s opening rolling intro riff sets the tone for this gripping track, which the band skillfully builds upon to create a captivating soundscape.
“A Decision” is a deeply personal and poignant song that addresses the devastating impact of suicide on those left behind. Written in the aftermath of someone close to the band taking their own life, the track explores the emotions experienced by those who were left to cope with the loss. With a gothic, early 80s sound and production techniques, the song uses symphonic, orchestral layers to symbolize the profound impact of this tragic event.
As the centerpiece of the album, “Silicon Implants” presents a thought-provoking rundown of current observations in society. The song references numerous contemporary events while drawing comparisons to historical knowledge, emphasizing how history often repeats itself. The track highlights the manipulation of language and the weaponization of misinformation in the modern world. It touches on various topics, including the misuse of terms in online arguments, the justification of wars, and the way words are twisted to create confusion and doubt. Shaven Primates skillfully weaves references to influential figures like Nietzsche, Aldous Huxley, Rabia, and Kafka into the song’s madness, backed by a rapid beat-down blues track, fast Homesick Blues vocals, random yet deliberate keys and guitar work, and a prominent bass line that commands attention.
“Unmasked” delves into the experiences of individuals living with autism, weaving together two distinct stories. One perspective emerges from an undiagnosed autistic child from the past who endured the challenges of school without proper support, while the other represents a diagnosed autistic child receiving the attention and understanding they deserve. This song becomes a celebration of those who find their way through the difficulties posed by their condition, embracing their uniqueness and finding confidence in being themselves. The delicate verses mirror the classroom environment, while the elevating and persistent chorus captures the empowering essence of the song’s message.
The album’s titular track, “Birds Aren’t Real,” is a thought-provoking exploration of an alternative truth that some individuals might grasp onto. With a touch of Spanish influence purely driven by the band’s personal preferences, the song delves into a punk-inspired chorus. It playfully proposes that birds are actually government-created cybernetic organisms designed to monitor human movements, presenting an absurd yet engaging concept that pokes fun at the world of conspiracy theories and alternative realities.
Shaven Primates’ members, known for their mysterious personas and thought-provoking artistry, have carefully crafted “Birds Aren’t Real” to be a thought-provoking and emotionally charged journey. With their unique blend of musical influences and a dedication to exploring unconventional concepts, the band aims to challenge societal norms and inspire listeners to question the narratives fed to them. Through the power of music, “Birds Aren’t Real” aims to encourage introspection, critical thinking, and empathy. Shaven Primates invites their audience to embark on this introspective odyssey, shedding light on the darker corners of human existence and the complexity of human minds.
As the world grapples with an increasingly interconnected but polarized reality, “Birds Aren’t Real” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking truth, understanding, and compassion. The album stands as a testament to the band’s growth, evolution, and artistic vision, cementing Shaven Primates’ place as one of the most innovative and daring bands in the contemporary music scene.
In conclusion, “Birds Aren’t Real” is not just an album; it is an experience – a journey into the depths of alternative thought and the human psyche. With its mesmerizing soundscapes and profound lyrics, Shaven Primates has once again pushed the boundaries of music and storytelling, leaving their listeners with a haunting and unforgettable encounter.
As the album spreads its wings into the world, it is sure to captivate audiences, leaving them pondering the enigmatic question – are birds truly what they seem to be? But beyond that, it will also leave them with a sense of unity, knowing that the power of music lies in its ability to connect us, challenge us, and awaken us to the infinite complexities of the human experience.
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