London-based Moderate Rebels is unlike any band I’ve heard before. The Sound of Security is a mesmerizing mess. There’s so much going on within the tracks, the beauty is in its craziness.
Moderate Rebels Finds Simplicity in Complexity
In an album in which clash is plentiful, Moderate Rebels has vocals that are layered and monotonous. They have a lazy tendency about them and keep the same tone throughout the entire album. Intuitive, the vocals tend to be the calmest part of whatever song they’re paired with. For instance, “Charismasta” is a fiery blend of wild instruments, but the deadpan execution of the lyrics brings the insanity to an understandable level.
“When The Cost Has No Value” is my favorite song on the record. The description “a load of overheard pub conversations, squashed into one song” pretty much decides it right there, but the song is incredible. A mix and mash of conflicts stuffed into two minutes. The tune is extremely fun to dance to as well as an excellent display of the extremely deadpan vocals.
Nods to Pop and Construction
“I’m Feeling the Deep State” and “Kether” were released with the record. The first of the two is the most toned-down musically. It’s also the most upbeat. Euphoric, melodic, and harmonious. The song almost has a pop nod included into it. “Kether” is described by the band as “drone fanfare,” which is confusing without listening to it. But by the end of the song, it’s easy to understand in a way. One of the three instrumental-only tracks on the album, “Kether” has a celebratory air to it. It syncs nicely with “I’m Feeling the Deep State” because of their indie pop vibes.
The punk outfit built a beacon of complexity within few chords and fewer words. Of the simplistic means, a wild ride of unfolds. The 13 tracks of The Sound of Security pushed boundaries and found no limitations.