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Song of the week: “Your Smile is a Hoax”

Song of the week: “Your Smile is a Hoax”

I can never get enough of dirty, chaotic melodies. The feeling of being overwhelmed by bone-chilling fuzz is simply unmatched. Thankfully, Psychic Graveyard’s new album “Wilting” has added some tracks to my playlist that satisfy that exact craving – and just in time for summer.

Wilting is the band’s fifth album in six years and it’s a real banger. A generous blend of punk, post-punk and noise rock, Wilting sees Psychic Graveyard using anarchic synths, heavy drumbeats and snotty, growling vocals. It’s a monster of an album that’s meant to be enjoyed.

Psychic Graveyard, “Your smile is a fraud”: Album opener “Your Smile is a Hoax” feels like the most radio-friendly track on Wilting. If you think that means it’s upbeat and inviting or has a catchy hook, you’re wrong. Instead, it’s a dark and hypnotic track driven by a motorik drumbeat, an absolutely filthy bassline, and harsh synth and guitar flourishes. This is the kind of song you shouldn’t even listen to if you’re not willing to crank the volume all the way up. It’s absolutely delicious, but admittedly a taste experience that takes some getting used to.

Do you like what you hear? Buy a copy of “Wilting” on vinyl.

Do you have a “Song of the Week” suggestion? Send us an email and a sentence or two about why you think this song is so popular lately. Friendly reminder: All songs should be by local artists!

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Jakob McWhinney is an education reporter for Voice of San Diego. He can be reached via email at [email protected] and followed on Twitter at @jakobmcwhinney. Subscribe… More from Jakob McWhinney