The EP establishes its stylistic range immediately through contrast. It opens with “Becoming Someone,” a track leaning into indie and beach rock sensibilities, carried by a catchy structure and notable vocal harmonies between Burke and Wynn. This mood pivots sharply with the second track “Whiskey,” which plunges into alternative and grunge territory, immersing the listener in distortion and feedback squeals. It’s a heavier, more intense sound where Burke’s vocals find a powerful footing, marking the EP’s most direct engagement with the grunge genre and underscoring the band’s versatile approach just two tracks in.

Lead single “BREAK U” is a standout, cleverly synthesizing the band’s varied interests. it incorporates unexpected math-rock elements and indie vibes during the verses before transitioning into more driving alt-rock choruses, making it arguably the EP’s most dynamic track. The closer, “Fawn,” presents itself as a slow burner initially, eventually unfurling with an expansive, almost classic rock energy that would not be lost on fans of Pink Floyd.

The wide reach of the EP’s sound finds context in the band members’ openly shared influences. A neat feature on their Spotify page includes individual mini-playlists curated by each member, showcasing tastes ranging from Van Halen and Metallica to MGMT and WILLOW. This publicly accessible roadmap helps illustrate the seemingly disparate elements present on the band’s debut, connecting the dots between inspiration and output. Even the EP’s cover art – a composite ‘Frankenstein’ face made from band member features and cutouts – reflects this method of piecing together diverse parts into a cohesive, if unconventional, whole.

Are We Sure About This? ultimately presents HitGRL as a band getting comfortable exploring the intersections of their varied influences and backgrounds. It’s a debut that values range, moving confidently between distorted intensity, indie catchiness, and atmospheric builds across its five distinct tracks. The EP is currently available for streaming on major platforms, with digital downloads offered via their Bandcamp page.

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Hot 8 Brass Band @ Rec Room

New Orleans-based 8-piece brass band, the Hot 8 Brass Band,  will be bringing their Mardi Gras party sound to Chippewa this Friday. Since forming in 1995, the Hot 8 have made a name for themselves reimagining classics and putting their own unique and engaging spin on very familiar songs such as “Sexual Healing,”and  “Love Will Tear Us Apart.” The band will be sure to bring their hits and slip in some familiar re-worked covers along wth some of their own original material. If you’re feeling romantic, bring your partner. If you aren’t feeling romantic, bring a co-worker. $29.27.

Saturday, February 15th @ 7pm

Lowspot @ Hot Mama’s Canteen

Traveling Cleveland grunge-punk quartet, Lowspot, makes a stop in Black Rock Saturday night. The Ohio band combines a bit of a 90’s-scene delivery on the vocals with some more contemporary power-pop instrumentals.

Joining the bill will be the re-emerging BP and the Oil Spills,  angular Fredonia act HitGRL, and Niagara Falls vintage rockers Hywater. Lowspot is touring in support of their December 2024 release Committee of Public Safety so bring something a lil extra for the merch table. Tickets are $10 at the door.

Saturday, February 15th @ 8pm

ILYLIA @ Milkies

Milkies is set to host the EP release of local hyper-pop artist ILYLIA. Self-crowned as “ethically sourced vamp pop,” to an outsider, ILYLIA’s music has a glitchy, scurrying appeal coupled with heavy vocal play, all with 120+ BPMS. Fans of 100 gecs or Grimes should put this on their radar.

Joining the lineup will be DJ s3xPot (Chango4’s DJ alter ego), R&B soul singer teddi valentine, and Rochester horror drum’n bass act Captain Lemo. This is one of those underground showcases that features some of the artists from Western New York’s music scene in the future. Get in early. $10 cover.

The post Must See Shows (2/12/25-2/18/25) first appeared on buffaBLOG.