Shatten – Shatten LP (Rookie Records)

I never trusted promo sheets. I always felt like the information enclosed in promo sheets spoils a listening experience. What’s good about brand new music if everything is detailly explained in the promo sheet, right? Shatten is one of those groups that escapes all the straightforward cliches, explanations, and classifications into a singular music genre. The group avoids traditional approaches to every genre they’re exploring through their illustrious sound. Their debut showcases a comprehensive collection of genres explored in a unique manner, but it seems that Shatten doesn’t stop there. Rookie Records heavily promoted this material through series of announcements and a couple of singles such as Loecher im Himmel and Katzen Pattern, so there’s no way you somehow missed this interesting group.

Shatten experiments with several complementary genres to achieve a sophisticated sound, which will suit every listening apparatus that craves underground music. You may stumble upon some power pop, post-hardcore, post-punk, rock’n’roll, alternative rock, indie rock, but all these ingredients are overwhelmed by the straightforward punk rock attitude. Nevertheless, Shatten cleverly measures this punk rock attitude to satisfy particular ear-appealing aesthetics, so you may not expect generous servings of characteristic punk rock aggression. Quite the contrary, Shatten leans more towards melodic punk rock ambiance but has certain moments where their music bursts with tremendous dynamics. The group thoroughly planned these maneuvers to the max, so each following number demonstrates even more brilliant ideas and ear-appealing sonic delicacies.

The way the occasional post-punk ambiance intervenes with the abrasive rock’n’roll guitars or how some indie rock arrangements are flirting with melodic punk rock chord progressions goes beyond comprehension so many times during the album. Still, you may hear some subtle intervening of post-hardcore thematics, alternative rock harmonies, a handful of cleverly implemented melodies on this polyphonous journey. These crossovers into the depths of melodic sound are not spoiling the listening experience. Quite the contrary, these accentuations are coming as a cherry on the top that defines the brilliance of Shatten. The powerful rhythm section keeps everything in line through robust basslines, moderate rhythmic segments, accentuations, and fills. This self-titled album represents a comprehensive collection of modern punk rock tunes that will satisfy even the pickiest ears. The album comes on clear vinyl or standard black vinyl. Head over to Rookie Records for more detailed information about ordering.