Local Music – Bitterfly – ‘Host Club’
Saskatoon’s Bitterfly (formerly Tunnel Kids) come out swinging on a debut track that perfectly matches the edge and punch of the new name/branding. From the get-go, ‘Host Club’ establishes that Bitterfly isn’t just a new name, it’s a new identity.
Drawing influences from progressive guitar driven bands like Chon and Fall of Troy, the track kicks off with an over-the-top dual guitar lead in 9/8 delivered by guitarists Andrew Bueckert and Kyle Casey. Is this necessary? No. Is this catchy as hell? Yes. To the band’s credit, they knew exactly how long they could keep this up before giving up the goods and dropping into a verse of sultry pop vocals delivered by the band’s frontwoman, Ariel Bueckert. Subtle vocal adlib giggles/whispers litter the songs arrangement, keeping the overwise serious-feeling section light-hearted.
The track eventually delves back into the more progressive motions on their chorus with odd-time changes, accented by tight bass and drum changes, provided by Anthony Pawluk and Alex Zurevinsky. Breaking step with the overly sampled drum tones this genre is typically known for, the band’s drum parts have more of a straightforward pop drive to them that’s accentuated by the boxy kick and snare tones. Whether intentional or accidental, I think this helps the track live more in the alt sphere and keeps the song feeling accessible/poppy.
The band produced this track fully in-house with guitarist Andrew Bueckert producing, mixing, and mastering the track. The mix as a whole feels large, but I do find myself craving slightly more bass content as well as overall perceived volume. Let’s chalk that up to personal taste, as this is a fundamentally well-produced track.
All in, ‘Host Club’ is an upbeat, punchy and driven pop rock track that does a great job of delivering pop hooks and progressive elements like odd time signatures and asymmetrical changes — without demanding the listener have a PhD in math.
About the Author
Matt Stinn is a Saskatoon-based award winning producer, touring musician, and cat lover. When not working in the music industry he hones his skills as an amateur writer and professional little spoon.
