Melbourne artist Aristo G describes his music as being ‘one man disco punk’. That might seem like a strange descriptor at first, but it’s surprisingly apt, and it all works really well together on his new EP, Overdrive. It’s certainly a unique sounding record, yet it’s well worth a listen, showing just how talented this artist really is!
By Jane Howkins
Opener Overdrive kicks things off in perfect style, featuring an eerie guitar lick that sounds like something that might belong in a spaghetti western film. The drums are huge too, matched by some interesting backing effects. Aristo G’s vocals are pretty darn good too, simply oozing attitude here. On paper it shouldn’t work, but it all sounds amazing – it’s surprisingly catchy too!
Next up is Your Life Is Now, which also starts with a cool guitar lick, showing the punky influences early on. The bass and beat match the music perfectly, containing a fast pace that will have you tapping your toes along to the tune in no time. The lyrics are great too, showing a more contemplative side to this artist as he croons along in fine style to the music.
Love Games is one of my favourite songs on the entire EP – it sounds incredibly powerful from the start, daring you to let loose and dance along. One of the things I love about Aristo G’s sound is the way he mixes a more traditional rock and roll sound with an electro swagger, and nowhere is this sensibility more defined than on Love Games. It’s a great track and I love it!
Closing song Pantomime is perhaps the best of the lot. The guitar work is a little more menacing here, buzzing along in the background in a cool way. The drums are really high energy here too, getting right underneath your skin on the first listen. Aristo G’s vocals are extremely powerful on this track, reminding me a little of the post-punk music of the 80s. The chorus is damn catchy too, tailing the record out nicely.
It’s great to hear an artist trying something new, so Aristo G should surely be lauded for the work he’s created on Overdrive. It’s a cracking record, suitable for listeners daring to check out a more experimental form of punk.
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