Leeds-based post-punk provocateurs Fakeminks have unleashed a frantic and brilliantly unhinged new single, 'Sugar High', solidifying their spot on The Guardian's coveted list of the week's essential new music.
The track is a masterclass in controlled chaos. It kicks off with a deceptive, jangly guitar riff that quickly spirals into a frenetic, breakneck-speed rhythm section, perfectly mirroring the manic energy of a glucose-fuelled rush. The vocals, delivered with a sneering, almost spoken-word intensity, chronicle the inevitable crash that follows—a paranoia-soaked comedown into anxiety and restless energy.
A Signature Sound of Raw, Northern Energy
Fakeminks have carved out a niche for themselves within the UK's thriving DIY scene. Their sound is a potent blend of raw, northern grit and sharp, observational lyricism. 'Sugar High' is no exception, showcasing their ability to transform everyday themes of modern exhaustion and artificial stimulation into a compelling and cacophonous anthem.
It’s a track that feels both timeless and urgently contemporary, drawing favourable comparisons to the wiry tension of bands like Protomartyr or the Fall, yet retaining a unique identity that is unmistakably Fakeminks.
More Than Just a Sugar Rush
Beneath the surface-level frenzy, 'Sugar High' offers a sharp critique. It's a commentary on the relentless pace of modern life, our quest for quick fixes, and the underlying emptiness that often follows. This depth, combined with their raw musical power, is precisely what continues to earn the band critical acclaim and a dedicated following.
For fans of intelligent, abrasive, and utterly captivating guitar music, 'Sugar High' is not just a recommendation; it's a necessity. The single is available to stream now on all major platforms.
