New York and Philly-based indie trio Personal Trainer modulate between energies hushed and explosive on debut single “Backyard,” a standout first release that demonstrates the group’s aptitude for powerfully anthemic songwriting. This is in large part due to the immense restraint that separates the track’s verses from its immediately sing-alongable chorus; underpinning lead vocalist Melina Harris’ initially quiet performance are the soft palpitations of a muted percussive backbone and feedback-adjacent guitar arpeggios, both of which come to the precipice of burning it all down before artfully scaling back. Personal Trainer’s balancing act eventually leads to a rip-roaring, instantly memorable vamp (“Well I’m making the rules as I go”), accentuated by harmonies and scorching garage rock riffs, delivering a satisfying, triumphant listen. No NYC gigs on the horizon (though they are playing in New Haven on May 26th), so stream the track below in the meantime. —Connor Beckett McInerney
