Following our previous feature on KaiserKillers, who caught our attention with the zeitgeist-revamped mix of Love Conquers All, the Colchester outfit return with something a little bit different for their new single, Isolation.
Opening with a simple, catchy guitar figure and a bright, driving rhythm, Isolation immediately feels lighter than some of the band’s more dense material. There is still that unmistakable KaiserKillers guitar vibe, but the production is notably stripped back.
We particularly connect with the contrast at the heart of the song. Isolation came from two very different interpretations of the same idea. For Johnny Zero, isolation is something positive. The idea of escaping the noise, pressure and endless demands of modern life and simply enjoying one’s own company. Andy DeForest, meanwhile, took the darker route, seeing it through the lens of social detachment, abandonment and heartbreak. The result is a song that manages to be upbeat, whilst carrying a little emotional tension underneath.
That contrast gives the lyrics plenty of personality. Johnny’s vision of disappearing from the world with no telephone, no transport, no news. Yes, it sounds idyllic. Andy’s contribution brings the reality of being left behind into sharper focus. The lighthouse reference towards the end adds another nice touch, particularly given Johnny’s apparent enthusiasm for the idea of a job where he could avoid people altogether.
Musically, Isolation shows a different side to KaiserKillers. That restraint works. The shimmering guitars, sneering vocal delivery and propulsive drums still carry their PowerPopPunk identity, but there is also a more melodic, almost folk-rock quality running through the track.
It is easy to hear the band’s influences without the song becoming an exercise in nostalgia. There are traces of the melodic punk of Buzzcocks and The Only Ones, alongside the guitar-led urgency of The Smiths, Blondie and, naturally, the melodic spirit of the Beatles.
Recorded largely at Strawberry Field Studio in Colchester, the track is a reminder that KaiserKillers don’t need a wall of guitars to make an impact. Sometimes a strong riff, a sharp lyric and a good story are enough.
Needless to say, we are happy to welcome KaiserKillers back with Isolation, another reminder of why their melodic take on punk and indie rock continues to stand out. We have added the track to our New Music Spotlight playlist and TIMELESS playlist, and look forward to hearing what comes next.