(Cover by Isaac Dell)
The noise is back! After two increasingly pop-leaning singles, Minneapolis trio Why Not return to their scuzzy, frantic roots.
"Dust" is almost a song-length riff. Bass and guitar match each other in an ascending line; in lieu of any sort of traditional hook, it provides something indelible to latch onto. Its rigidity pairs in perfect opposition with Henry Breen's off-kilter vocal delivery. He rhythmically shouts the verses while the chorus breakdown is a blast of chaos, lost in the blink of an eye. Distortion covers whatever the words may be in cathartic soot. The brief instance of pitch-shifting around halfway through the song reminds you that it was made in collaboration with Caleb Hinz, as with much of the band's prior discography. Subtle flashes of absurdity mesh with raw energy.
I wouldn't go so far as to say that "Dust" is a reassurance, offering a bit of the band's old chaos. One of the joys of Why Not has been their resilience against definition. Ever since the release of EP just over a year ago, the trio has followed every whim to glorious effect. The only constant has been each member's proficiency. Breen and guitarist Isaac Dell have only become more tasteful and selective with where they place their parts without compromising their ability to shred when the need arises, and Joshua MacGregor remains one of the most versatile drummers in the scene (I could listen to his fills during the last 12 seconds of "Dust" forever). If anything, this is a reassurance that the band will stay restless and creative as long as they're together.
Stream "Dust" below or on the platform of your choice. See Why Not's upcoming tour dates (including SXSW) here.
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