Photo Source: Prism Tats
Prism Tats is set to perform at Barboza this Friday, October 19th. Part of the week’s City Arts Fest, the set will also feature Howlin Rain, Assemble Head in Sunburst Sound, and Fox and the Law.
A one-man project, Prism Tats inks out a passionate, minimal aesthetic that shimmers from the first strum. G Vanderkrimp – formerly the singer/guitarist for Seattle band Koko and the Sweetmeats – takes listeners for a fuzzy but spirited ride with his self-proclaimed "future garage trash pop." He has a hodgepodge of songs available to stream currently.
"Death or Fame," forms immediately and eagerly; the sweet-singing guitar stabs mesh well with Vanderkrimp’s high-pitched, incandescent vocal style. The simple bass drum beat and supporting electronic effects are subtle and help anchor the snarling wails he breaks into later in the song.
"Lizard Scum" carries on its shoulders a more somber, secluded vibe. The chorus, though, is as melodious and ear-grabbing as many of Seattle’s catchiest and inclusive folk bands. Here, the climaxes are always kept on a short leash without exploding into overwrought harmonies. Its armor of fuzzed-out pop has cracks; synthetic echoes and murmurs lurk nearby.
For one further example of ‘trash pop’ validation, "Vacant & Impatient" is a more straightforward, bluesy number that oozes with aliveness. It is catchy, dark, and urban – and very replayable.
Head over to Barboza on the 19th of October to catch Prism Tats accompanying a good lineup through and through. Tickets are $13 and doors open at 7pm. Listen to "Lizard Scum" below and visit his bandcamp to hear a handful of tracks. Whooping Cranes Records is releasing a debut 7” on Nov. 20 for $6. Preorder here.
– Cameron LaFlam