Hailing from Belfast, Ireland, Midnight Housework wields nostalgia like an artist’s brush, aiming to impart the feeling of those wistful remembrances that strike us when we are in certain places or hear certain songs. It’s an ambitious approach, writing soundtracks for nostalgic moments, that lends itself to writing big, anthematic songs, and the band tends to pull it off well. Their new single, Red Solo Cups, is a perfect demonstration.
Described by the band as “a cavernous exploration into the downsides of lust and desire,” one can immediately imagine a setting for this song, perhaps a party littered with the titular beverage containers, and a protagonist who is not having the good time they were expecting that night. “Red Solo Cups” is, by turns, melancholy and tumultuous, restless and, eventually, something like hopeful. The lyrics seem to portray someone consumed with insecurity and jealousy, unable to make a connection they long for, before ending with a sense of…well, if not hope, at least closure.
Midnight Housework tastefully uses a wide palette of indie rock influences; “Red Solo Cups” starts with a jangly chord progression reminiscent of ’90s college rock like Belly, before transforming into a big fuzzed-out chorus Bob Mould would be proud of, finally finishing with intense, heavy guitars and math-rock-inspired guitar licks. Singer Sean Hogan’s voice is unique and soaring, perfectly suited to the type of big, arena-ready songs Midnight Housework writes. Drummer Luke Harrison and bassist Blaine Crooks are perfectly locked in, while guitarist Thomas Ferris skillfully layers shimmering chords and arpeggios, using exotic voicings and subtle, perfectly crafted lines; these are talented, knowledgeable musicians playing everything in service to the song.
Only their third release, “Red Solo Cups,” showcases a band that is on the rise. Midnight Housework is active online, where you can engage with them on Instagram, Facebook, and they have well-produced videos for their first two singles on YouTube. You can purchase their first single on Bandcamp.
Written by Dylan Steele
