F.Y.P is one of the rare bands that I'd say nobody sounds like -- but in the past two months I've caught myself making that comparison twice. First while listening to the new Dumpies LP (spoiler alert: they cover F.Y.P on that same record) and now as I listen to the Physicalist debut EP. The interesting thing here isn't the comparison, it's that I think of the same band for entirely different sonic reasons between these groups..
Physical started as a solo effort from Dave P of Night Court later recruiting friends in Cell, Unfun, and Night Court into the mix. It's a common story post-2020. Start a new thing, then get your friends involved. And, hell, isn't that what this whole scene is supposed to be about anyway?
I digress.
The EP is both melodic and noisy, sometimes sounding like a vehicle for Dave P'sambitions while at other times giving that full band feel. It's fittingly a debut in that sense, finding its direction as we witness the development. The earlier F.Y.P comparison comes via the vocal shout style and boundless energy that bursts beyond the notes. It's angry, loud music but it's equally a little bit weird. This is by no means hardcore even though it's short, fast 'n' loud. Instead, I'd call it sloppy punk influenced by trash punk, first wave hardcore, DIY lo-fi, and unbridled creativity.
While I say the band is still finding itself, it still captures a mood and moment perfectly. I can dig it.
