The Very - Perfumed Apocalypse

The Very

Perfumed Apocalypse
self-released; 2017

3.9 out of 5

BY Andrew Westberry
​

In 2014, some of the original five members of the band Fertile Virgin reconnected after over twenty years and formed a musical duo called Cricket, which eventually transformed in 2016 into The Very, a pop rock trio with hints of garage rock and classic rock n’ roll mixed in. Their debut record entitled Perfumed Apocalypse was released in February 2017.

​The opening track, the title track of the album, is a bright, upbeat rock song with heavy lyrics that muse about gullible men and destructive women. A host of instruments, including pounding drums, steadily strummed electric guitars and throbbing bass, lay down the soundscape over which strong female vocals carry the melody and harmonies.

The energy continues in “I’m Not Your Satellite” a reflective piece that explores independence in the modern context. Echoing vocals and gradually building snare riffs add flavor to the already full instrumentation, and grunge-tinged guitars make powerful chord changes even more aggressive. Following, “Angel Of The Interstate” highlights The Very’s ability to blend beautiful harmonics with fast-paced, highly dynamic style in a novel, unique way.

“Sneak Attack” features unconventional rhythms and tight chord progressions in the introductory riff, a catchy riff that repeats throughout the song as it builds and gradually crescendos into a full-fledged anthem. In the record’s final track “The Road To Hurt” The Very maintains their characteristic sound, yet the band adds a lead guitar to the mix. This less distorted, almost twang-infused guitar brings a new element to the band’s sound, making for a very intriguing listening experience.

As a whole, Perfumed Apocalypse is a multivalent collection of five songs that are as approachable as they are enjoyable. This masterful work shows just how possible it is for a group of experienced musicians to come together to create quality music, even after multiple decades of being apart.

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