Sick Pay is a post-punk slacker rock band hailing from the vibrant music scene of Glasgow, Scotland—a city I recently had the pleasure of visiting. Glasgow has a rich musical heritage, being home to numerous influential bands, including one of my personal favorites, Swiss Portrait. Sick Pay’s debut EP, “Get Well Soon,” is a compelling collection of six tracks that represents the band’s early exploration and creative output. The intriguing name of the band perfectly captures their artistic identity.
Throughout the year, Sick Pay has had the opportunity to perform these tracks live, which played a significant role in refining their sound and shaping the final selection for this EP. The music transcends conventional genres, incorporating elements of slacker rock, garage rock, post-punk, indie rock, shoegaze, and alternative rock. It’s a diverse sonic landscape that invites listeners to explore various musical textures. They assert that the foundation of their songs is rooted in slacker rock, and I find myself in agreement.
One of the most striking aspects of the EP is how it masterfully blends these different genres, introducing a layered array of energies. I particularly enjoyed how the more dynamic, upbeat tracks are thoughtfully contrasted with melancholic, almost slowcore shoegaze melodies. The first time I listened to the entire EP, I was genuinely surprised—positively, of course. Sick Pay showcased their considerable talent and artistic vision, resulting in an engaging listening experience.
The shifts between genres not only highlight their versatility but also demonstrate that they are capable of excelling in multiple musical spheres. This collection stands out as one of the most intriguing releases I’ve encountered this year.
Another element that captivated me was the distinctly British punk and post-punk essence woven throughout the music. It’s an attribute that feels unique yet incredibly challenging to articulate—there’s a palpable energy and attitude that resonates clearly. Overall, Sick Pay has delivered a stellar debut, and I eagerly anticipate what they will create next.
In addition to the music itself, I really appreciated the special thanks section included in the press release. It’s a nice touch that sheds light on the collaborative and creative process behind the songs.
“On top of the countless individuals who supported the EP by visiting shows, streaming singles and sharing social media posts, we would love to say a special thanks to three people who made the EP possible. First, Izobel Ross, who alongside performing excellent vocals on ‘Girl On The Screen’ was an excellent friend and support during the recording process. Secondly, Martin/Last Punch Mastering, who was key in ensuring our tracks reached their full potential and sound quality. Finally we would love to give a huge thanks to Mellisa Brisbane, our producer/mixer/recording technician who was the backbone of the whole project, from meeting her as the sound technician for our first show ever she has been pivotal in the journey to our First EP.“
Written by Filip Zemcik
