Floodwater Angel - "Playboy" | New Music

(Cover art by Aiden LaFollette-James)

I am easily pleased. For example, I am extremely pleased to finally have these Floodwater Angel songs out in the world. They've been fiery staples of the band's live show for a good while now, so convincing of FA's musical power that my friend who had never been to a gig before specifically requested the demos for "Daughter" after the band's set. Floodwater Angel changes lives, y'know?

The band's new double-single, entitled Playboy, is the band as a coin, perfectly offering their duality in acidic rock fervor. "Daughter" is the mosh-starter you didn't know you needed (unless you've gotten to the gig). Maddie Knorr steps out as a songwriter with a defiant middle-finger to all the homophobic creeps, unsupportive parents, and anyone between. It's a raging anthem for anyone who has been through similar experiences. The song is music as catharsis. There is no doubt that people will be shouting along to the lyrics whenever they hear it, whether it's the Ramones-esque "ay ay ay" chants or the thesis statement chorus ("I won't be your girl / I won't make it easy / I'm not your fucking daughter").

B-Side "Xoxo GG" is the love song opposite of "Daughter." An ode written by Knorr to their partner, the track is subdued by FA standards but makes up for it in pure devotion. Death to hesitation and second-thoughts, and whatnot. The elegantly simple lyrics could be read as a come-on, but they function more as an economy of words of adoration.

I haven't mentioned much of the actual music yet, have I? "Daughter" sprints ahead with raucous chords and vicarious drums (yeah, Sam!). The second half is taken up by the requisite psychedelic breakdown, with guitar solos so fried-out you might try to reheat them in the microwave (would not recommend). "Xoxo GG" is the FA version of what a "normal" indie rock song might sound like. Instead of thudding, the bass slinks around; instead of exploding, the drums are tasteful. The band opts to show off their range instead of overwhelming the song's sentiment with noise. Despite how intense their live shows are, FA understand the priority of lyrics and build their songs to meet the emotional level necessitated by the wordplay. Both songs rise to the occasion in stellar fashion.

Buy and stream Playboy below. Additionally, stay tuned for Playboy on vinyl (!), coming soon.