OK Cool is a queer, math rock-influenced, emo shoegaze math duo from Chicago, Illinois. Their music features a wide range of influences blended with pop sensibilities that keep their songs catchy, energetic, and clean-feeling.
Their single “Waawooweewaa” has a very interesting and silly title and an upbeat and bright sound reminiscent of 90s and 2000s pop rock. The lyrics tell a darker story in contrast with this bright tone, as is often seen in emo-pop style music. The track features a runtime of only around 2 minutes and 30 seconds and keeps a steady and fast tempo throughout. The vocals come in immediately with a pop-punk tone that reminded me of Paramore vocalist Haley Williams. The song features consistent guitar, bass, and drum-style instrumentation throughout. The guitars are distorted but well-contained in a style that sounds more accessible and radio-friendly. They have a tone that is more similar to shoegaze music than punk rock. Another aspect I particularly liked was the added touch of guitar harmonics that give the song a more technical sound that sets it apart from many in the pop-punk genre.
Overall, I would recommend the track to fans of 2000s emo pop bands such as Paramore, Fall Out Boy, and Avril Lavine, as well as to fans of shoegaze music and to members of the LGBT community who are looking to find more queer artists in a scene that is dominated by cisgender, heterosexual men. You can see the track to purchase on BANDCAMP and find more information about the band, such as social media links to stay up to date with their releases HERE!!!
Written by Naomi Niemiec
