If you’re seeking the electrifying pulse of alt-punk with a sprinkle of fresh ingenuity, then let me introduce you to Everything But The Everything, the Bay Area’s sonic powerhouse that’s breaking all the rules and making sure we have the time of our life doing it. Led by the enigmatic Izzy The Gent, this band isn’t just making music. They are creating an experience that hits us right in the feels and keeps us coming back for more. They’re no ordinary band. Picture this: Izzy The Gent, a musical alchemist who’s been a vital part of acts like JonBenet Stranglehold and The Frail, is on bass and everything else, concocting an explosive soundscape. Add to that the vocal dynamo Sophia Prise, whose voice could make your heart melt, guitarist Ian Dowd, a man who’s been shredding with Fire In The Hamptons and JonBenet Stranglehold, and drummer Chad Roxxit, who’s been the rhythmic backbone for The Hot Takes and Chad and Scott. This is a supergroup of sorts, each member bringing their A-game to the table, and their recent project, “A & B Sides Vol. Two,” is a sonic thrill ride. Let’s dive into the music, shall we?
“Hotshot” kicks off the EP with a vibe that makes the head bop from the very first note. This track is drenched in new-wave nostalgia, but it’s not content to sit in the past. Instead, it pulls those influences into the present, crafting something familiar and exhilaratingly new. The production, helmed by Rex Shelverton, is crisp and atmospheric, with just the right amount of grit to keep things interesting. The real star here, though, is Sophia Prise. Her vocal performance is mesmerizing—there’s an emotional depth and urgency in her delivery that pulls us in and refuses to let go. Izzy’s anecdote about Sophia crafting the “wordiest melody with no space for a breath” is no exaggeration; her performance is a feat of vocal dexterity, delivering every line with precision and passion.
Instrumentally, “Hotshot” is amazing. The $99 Casio keyboard might have been a gamble, but Shelverton’s wizardry transforms it into something magical, layering it with vintage warmth that complements the track’s edgy vibe. The guitars shimmer with sharp clarity, and the rhythm section is tight, propelling the song forward with relentless energy.
Then there’s “Salt,” a track that ups the ante with its blend of punk rock rawness and pop sensibility. This is where the band’s chemistry shines. From the very first strum, “Salt” grabs us by the collar and drags us onto the dance floor. The guitars are punchy and aggressive, but there’s a melody lurking underneath that gives the track its infectious quality. The juxtaposition of raw punk energy with polished production creates a dynamic tension that’s utterly compelling.
Sophia Prise once again delivers a knockout performance, her vocals exuding grit and grace. The chorus, in particular, is a highlight. It’s one of those moments where everything clicks, and you can feel the electricity in the air. Izzy’s instinct that they had something “extra special” was spot on; “Salt” is a track that’s destined to become a fan favorite. The production is stellar as well, with Rex Shelverton capturing the band’s live energy while adding a touch of studio polish that elevates the song to another level.
Overall, “A & B Sides Vol. Two” is more than just a couple of songs; it’s a statement. It’s a testament to Everything But The Everything’s collective creativity, their willingness to push boundaries, and their passion for music that’s as heartfelt as it is hard-hitting. Whether you’re looking for a punk anthem to scream along to or a melodic journey that tugs at your heartstrings, this EP delivers—and then some. Loud the volume, let the music take over, and get ready to fall in love with Everything But The Everything. This is alt-punk at its finest, and it’s here to stay.
Listen to the “A & B Sides Vol. Two” EP on Spotify or SoundCloud
Follow the band on here for more information
