Don't is the latest release from Auckland punk 3-piece Lookin Up, and it is gritty and heavily distorted.
Starting with a riff that is heavily reminiscent to vibe of KoRN's Right Now, Don't emerges into a surprisingly melodic track despite the heaviness. While instrumentally there is a similarity to the funky styling of Dead Favours, their overall sound is more in line with the upbeat style of Royal Blood and Highly Suspect.
Just over two minutes in length, the track hits that middle ground between hardcore punk tracks that will often run for less than a minute, and the formulaic rock that sits at 3.5 minutes. The vibe follows that same trend, with heavily distorted guitar that is fast paced, but not manic. The highly melodic sound is a surprise from a punk group emerging from the hardcore scene, but a welcome surprise.
Great pacing that is relentless throughout, and good variation between the layering of the riffs to keep it interesting. Especially loved the switch between the left and right during the breakdown at the outro which makes full use of the stereo speaker systems.
Don't has a great hooky riff, with some easy to chant along with lyrics, that could easily become a popular hit if it finds its exposure. Definitely worth checking out.
Review written by Alex Moulton
Birthed in the Aotearoa Hardcore scene and playing endless shows up and down the country, Lookin Up is a band of high energy and passion. With their debut album Reborn released in March 2014, the band have done nothing but played with all they have, to anyone who is willing to listen. A tight and punchy wall of sound coupled with challenging lyrics encapsulates this positive and powerful live act, leaving you feeling uplifted and exhausted in the best possible way. Having secured support slots for Rise Against, Parkway Drive, Berri Txarrak, The Story So Far, Man Overboard, Gorilla Biscuits, Thy Art Is Murder, The Word Alive, Deez Nuts, Turnstile, Four Year Strong and many more, the future is looking bright for this Auckland based 3-piece.