Returning to the forefront with their latest creation, “Needles and Pins,” TEA HEAD, the prominent alt-rock sensation hailing from Philadelphia, brings forth a musical exploration that resonates deeply. Emerging from the dynamic house show and college circuit in 2018, the band has etched their footprint across the city’s musical landscape, gracing iconic venues like Milkboy, Kung Fu Neck Tie, Silk City, Philamoca, and the Khyber Pass. This season, TEA HEAD has treated their followers to a sequence of invigorating singles, culminating in the unveiling of their opus, “Needles and Pins.” Significantly, this track also claims the title spot on their forthcoming EP.
Unveiled on August 9th via Free Dive Records, “Needles and Pins” is a true embodiment of the band’s signature blend of high-energy indie rock, punctuated by shades of emo, classic rock, and alternative influences. Crafted meticulously throughout 2022, the single took shape at Little Brother Audio in West Philadelphia, nurtured to perfection through the skillful production and mixing by Vic Antonio.
At its core, “Needles and Pins” pays homage to the relentless struggle against societal expectations in the pursuit of forging one’s identity while evading the clutches of burnout. As Gabe Sagherian, TEA HEAD’s drummer, eloquently phrases it, “From what I can tell, the real needles and pins are societal expectations, things that currently hold you down, dissatisfactions, surrounding you and pricking you everywhere.” The track serves as a conduit for the band to channel their frustrations, endeavoring to liberate themselves from the weights they carry.
Adding his perspective, John Fordyce, the lead vocalist and guitarist, shares, “This song kinda embraces my inner lazy-burnout-stoner. Wanting to do more with my life than I am doing, but also optimistic because I know that it is in my hands.” The lyrics delve into the anxieties born from the constant pressure to generate and bring value in a world that isn’t always imbued with optimism.
The creative process behind “Needles and Pins” was characterized by precision and efficiency. Each band member impeccably understood their role, which streamlined the recording process. Joe Bucci, the guitarist, particularly emphasizes the importance of capturing the opening riff on the 12-string guitar. With such cohesion, the remaining elements converged seamlessly, a testament to the band’s unity and mastery of their craft.
John McDermott, the bassist, reflects on the recording process, “We played this song a lot in gigs, so going in and recording it, I treated it like another gig and played it as I usually would; which worked because Gabe and I finished this song in 1 take.” This instinctive approach reverberates in the song’s authenticity and raw fervor.
“Needles and Pins” is now accessible on major platforms, inviting fans to immerse themselves in TEA HEAD’s melodious expedition through societal struggles, burnout, and the quest for authenticity. As the track reverberates with a vivid tapestry of emotions and musical brilliance, TEA HEAD’s standing as a formidable presence in the alt-rock realm solidifies, giving voice to those grappling with the pressures of today’s world.
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