album review
OK Cool
Surrealist
Self-Released
March 26, 2021
Bridget Stiebris and Haley Blomquist, members of The Weekend Run Club, deliver a clever emo indie-rock EP with Surrealist. Opening with a ‘meow’ and closing with a ‘bark’- this record is filled with whimsy and upbeat riffs that backdrop angsty, anxiety-filled lyrics that are easy for listeners to relate to.
“I Bought A Sword'' is a short, garage rock tune; a crash-course of feelings that illustrate one’s grief for effects of the pandemic:
“I never thought I'd be so desperate / for awkward human interactions / and sketchy bathroom floors / I miss the great indoors.”
The lead single and video for the EP, “Five Finger Exploding Heart Technique” gives us crashes of crispy drums and warm melodic riffs, a fast-paced track that clearly shows the skill level of everyone involved. OK Cool displays a timefeel and tightness that is only achieved after years of playing together. “Hertz 2B” tones down into an almost post-punky feel, with deep sustaining harmonies against melodic riffs and bursts of punchy drum fills.
“Divers” closes the EP with a slow building anthem, filled with honest and vulnerable lyricism:
“You swim in the deep end with me / and I try not to say “I'm sorry" / and though it won't end up working out / I tread in the water for a minute hoping that I won't drown.”
OK Cool has a true Chicago sound, bringing together emotional grit, ripping guitars, and a whimsical honesty about the fucked up feelings we are faced with.