A few times on Skywire, Common Children tips it hat to groups like Nirvana and the Choir. A trait that owes more to the group’s use of contrasting dynamics, using loud and softer passages against each other for musical effect, and killer production by the Choir’s Steve Hindalong than a lack of originality.
Singer/guitarist Marc Byrd’s lyrics take an introspective look at life and relationships which he uses as a forum to air his insecurities and regrets. In “Wishing Well,” he offers the prayer, “forgive me for the people I hurt in my life.” “I hate myself,” he sings in “Hate,” with a cathartic release of guitar feedback and screamed vocals. This is noisy redemption, akin to Jacob wrestling with the angel at Peniel.
Though the grunge tag is wearing a bit thin as most modern rockers move into the “next wave” of noisy, quirky pop songs, Common Children takes the angst to the next level with strong melodies, genuine feeling, and a willingness to experiment with everything from string quartets to toy pianos. Skywire has a lot to offer from a trio that’s sure to have even more to offer in the future.
Brad Caviness