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Written by Demi Marshall
Background Character is a weird punk band from Chicago. Formed in fall 2019 by friends Jenny and Bash, the band has released 3 albums and an EP so far in their short run and they aren’t slowing down. The band doesn’t blend influences, but rather jumps between genres chaotically and erratically mid-song. Their third album Gorgeous dropped in August 2023 and had an accompanying release tape through Chirp Records. Now with their new bassist Salem, Background Character plans to tour this spring and work on new music for a fourth album.
Gorgeous is a distinctive collage of punk/alt/metal, and easily one of the most exciting albums I’ve heard in a while. The frequent, abrupt shifts of style and vibe keep you on the edge of your seat. The album’s title track opens with epic, heavy guitar followed by haunting synth and low vocals/background screams. The song’s close includes similar features, but adds a melodic, piano pop beat. The final track “Saturn Return” also features chaotic shifts in sound. Starting with an indie rock style, the guitar takes a jarring turn into metal style with growling guitar/vocals and driving drums before the song returns to its original sound. Gorgeous invites you to expect the unexpected in the best way, so strap in and give it a listen.
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