You remember “Jerk It Out” by The Caesars or “Flathead” by The Fratellis? You remember how Apple used both of those songs in early commercials for the iPod? All I’m going to say is this: Major corporations, don’t you dare touch “What’s New On The Beat Scene” by Perennial. The song is fantastic, don’t get me wrong. I just don’t want to associate it with Big Tech.
“What’s New On The Beat Scene” is the latest single from the band, which features on Modernism, their new album dropping this September. The new song certainly gives early-2000s Britpop-inspired indie rock vibes: Along with The Caesars and The Fratellis, think The Strokes or The Jets. But Perennial, of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts, call themselves “modernist punk”, citing influences such as The Who, Le Tigre, Stereolab, MC5, Wilson Pickett, and more for the sound on the new LP.
Despite paying homage to these artists, Perennial sound as original as ever on “What’s New On The Beat Scene”. Energetic drums from Ceej Wolf, a repeating overdriven guitar riff, and some fun Mellotron organ sounds all come together to pack a punch in under two minutes of music. As for vocals, Chad Jewett (electric guitar/vox) and Chelsey Hahn (electric organ/vox) rock out with speak-singing that would rouse a football stadium full of fans, but would fit just as well in a sweaty Springfield basement or crowded Hartford club.
It’s a single that rages against any form of limitation and commands the spirit to move us. And that’s why I fear the capitalist powers who ruin everything will hear “What’s New On The Beat Scene” and say, “You know what? We could use this to advertise our new phones!” In fact, what’s new on the beat scene is smashing the oligarchy through the power of music and dance. And God willing, with the music of Perennial behind us, we will do just that.
Prepare yourselves for Modernism when it comes out in September, and watch the stylish music video for “What’s New On The Beat Scene” below.
Written by Will Sisskind
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