Prince's fingerprints and the "Minneapolis Sound" that he created can easily be spotted within the Minnesota music scene. However, no one has fully embraced that late '70s and '80s funkiness more than Static Panic. Calling the trio a tribute act would be a complete disservice since the band's 2018 debut EP Chrome featured dance, electronic, and even dubstep influences. The release of that EP, plus magnetic performances and personalities, landed them spots on First Ave's 2018 Best New Band showcase and at the Basilica Block Party. Even with all that under their belt, Static Panic is back with anthemic new EP Glow.
With this new release, the band has really worked to unify their sound and introduced organic elements back into their recorded sound. The band has grown and changed as Ro Lorenzen, Keston Wright, and Eli Kapell come into their own as Static Panic. Where Chrome was crystalline and synthetic, Glow is warmed up by jazzy guitar flourishes and natural drum parts. "SMS," the EP's opening salvo, hooks the listener with its pulsing backbeat. Ro uses the letters of an SMS text message like a distress signal, calling out the lyrics like the ubiquitous message for 3 a.m. pleasure.
The themes of connection via cellphone continue onto the song "It Really Do Be Like That (Sometimes)." Static Panic urges you to be understanding over other peoples shortcomings in a world where everything and everyone seems perfect. "Glow" is not only the EP's title track. It's also the band's most ambitious song. Static Panic leans heavily into the electronic side of their sound with soaring synth leads and bubbling sub-bass. A surprise searing guitar solo takes the title track in a different direction before the band builds "Glow" back up to a grand finale.
If you weren't completely sold on Static Panic with their last release, Glow will absolutely seal the deal. Its infectious grooves are covered with a thick layer of sensuality that you just can't help but love. The EP is fun, dancey, and guaranteed to lift your mood.
Glow is out today, Friday, September 6. Find it on Spotify, Soundcloud, or iTunes.
Static Panic is also hosting an EP release show on Saturday, September 7 at the Turf Club. The show is 21+, and there are still tickets left.
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