Bananarchy "How It Feels to Lose"

Bananarchy is a 4 piece grungy emo band with some not-so-subtle pop punk influence. How It Feels to Lose draws influence from multiple genres and is really fun to listen to. This 8 track album is their first. It features somber lyrics, intentionally raw vocals and distorted power chords. The group includes Matt Ruiz on vocals and guitar, Kenny Rosa on guitar, Jordan Jones on bass and Lucas Aton on Drums.

When I first saw Matt Ruiz perform, it was an acoustic set for a small room. The songs were sad and featured bouts of screaming over the guitar, I loved the vulnerability he showed and became an instant fan upon hearing his voice. He gave 110% to our small crowd and was very funny, often making fun of himself between songs despite the serious tone of the songwriting. This sound, now expanded by a full band, stays consistent throughout How It Feels to Lose.

Bananarchy is a wind storm of gloomy honesty. The lyrics are relatable and speak to real experiences, “I talk too much, and mostly in apologies, and that's regretfully, a part of me,” in Brainfreeze and in And A Bottle, “Was I too fucked up to love you more than bud and a bottle?” are some of my favorite examples of this. 

Their music focuses on defined moments of intensity, playful chord progressions, a driving rhythm section, and blurring the lines between primitive and sophisticated examples of the genre. Although the lyrics speak of loss, regret and being your own worst enemy, there is a somewhat lighthearted aura in the delivery overall. This hidden paradox in their music is equal to the cheerful nature of their name. 

Unfortunately I've not been able to see Bananarchy live yet but I'm imagining that the experience is fun as hell! Stream the album on Spotify or checkout their bandcamp here. Be sure to like their Facebook page to be notified of upcoming shows. Hopefully a tour is in the future! Come to UT! 

For Fans of: The Wonder Years, Patent Pending
Fave Tracks: Adjustments, Off Time