Shake the Geek’s new single ‘Ego’ is filled with a retro-curiosity

Shake the Geek are back with their second single ‘Ego’, their retro-curiosity is matched with pop savvy, making for a solid track. They’re stylistically ambitious but nothing too abstract, Shake the geek are a very accessible band. While already supported names such as Reef and Pattern Pusher, it’s easy to see them sandwiched high up on the festival circuit 2021.

Its eighties-rock ballad opening (cue spotlight on the acoustic guitar) is playing into Ella’s distinctive vocals. A soulful, country kick that only intensifies as the track suddenly jolts forward. With a plugged-in, electric thundering, you can almost see the sweat from the pit drip onto the floor. It’s dense, it’s sticky and with glam-nasty riffs but the vocals don’t slump and keeps the track on its toes, it barely sits still.

‘Ego’ is the perfect festival song, the track (and the moshers) erupt at all the right moments. I always look forward to their gigs; Shake the Geek are definitely a live band; each member has their own distinct sound, but never overpowering or undermining one another. It’s obvious that the source of their confidence is their bond with each other.

The track reflects all it’s romantic wreckage through Ella’s raspy breaths and Freedom’s poison-esk riffs, both sharp enough to cut. Even the most melancholy lyrics come from a place of empowerment, strengthened by the gutsy undercurrent of the rhythm section. The track is smart, clear-headed, allowing maximum energy to be spent on evolving through a series of genuinely classic-sounding singles.

But not to be branded as just revivalists, Shake the Geek are clearly modernising and updating their beloved genre for a new wave of fans. The track packs a pretty sizable punch but still leaning into the femininity of the vocals. I can see the band filling the gaping hole left by bands such as Franz Ferdinand and Kula Shaker.

The band are in their element with ‘Ego’, mixing styles so seamlessly, from Hiam twangs and poodle rock flourishes, gliding from one hook to another, It’s a glossy single with a treat sized pop edge. It’s fiendishly catchy,  giving it an air of immediate familiarity. Although just two singles in, their latest release is definitely a solid blueprint for a future EP. ‘Ego’ acting a strong backbone for their next project, as well as nestling nicely among their eclectic covers. Their debut single ‘Jenga’ is out on all major platforms now, and check out their YouTube for live sessions and vlogs.

‘Ego’ is out on all major platforms now, follow them on Instagram for track updates and wicked new merch!