Technical proficiency too often ends up as a chain holding musicians back rather than pushing them further. All of the noodling in the world will never make up for mediocre songwriting. Thankfully there are artists like Mamahawk, who have technical chops, sure, but use them for pop bliss rather than for wankery. The band’s new single “Lioness” is an excellent display of that, with Minus the Bear–like guitar work accompanying impressive multi-part harmonies and some Chromeo style electro-funk. The song is a rare example of the “more is more” approach paying off, packed with enough ideas it could fuel lesser groups for entire albums. Give it a listen and then catch the band for their single release show at Swan Dive tomorrow, February 24th!
