Setting the tone with a dimensional and enigmatic guitar performance with bold drums and atmospheric vocals, Picnic Lightning share a subversive, cosmic energy as they open Simulacra.
We are immediately mesmerized by the dynamic and anthemic nature of the soundscape, and the almost chant-esque delivery of the prose that Picnic Lightning deliver. The depth of their lyricism is tangible, and the instrumental performances are nothing short of masterful.
An ascending guitar solo sends us astral, as the composition builds with tension. The piece holds a meditative energy, at the same time as tapping into what feels like a sense of ancient-futurism.
We learn that Picnic Lightning are a band from Fort Worth, Texas who describe their sound as “raw and brooding desert punk”, which makes a lot of sense to us now! They have coined their sound as that of “summer heat and dimly lit clubs, like a dust storm, delivering a spiritual stomp that dwells in the shadowland of trenchant questions and orphic revelations.” Needless to say, we are in awe!
It’s refreshing to find spiritually inclined bands from middle America who are unafraid of showcasing authenticity and uniqueness, and what Picnic Lightning offer feels progressive and transcendental.
The band cite Trail of Dead, Arcade Fire, and Courtney Barnet as well as Velvet Underground and The Beatles as some of their influences, but there is absolutely no doubt that Picnic Lightning are creating a universe of their very own.
We have added Simulacra to our New Music Spotlight playlist, whilst we continue to stream Picnic Lightning‘s wider discography including the Texas Mix of Over My Head!