Album of the Week by Fat Brain “Death to False Zamrock” for the week of February 23, 2025
A Sonic Love Note From Malmö, Sweden
As the crisp air of February 2025 gives way to the burgeoning signs of spring, Malmö’s underground music scene bursts forth with an electrifying new offering from the garage rock duo Fat Brain. With their debut EP, Death to False Zamrock, the band has crafted a five-track sonic manifesto that pays homage to the raw energy of rock while pushing boundaries with a fresh twist. Released on Valentine’s Day, February 14th, this EP is not just a collection of songs; it’s a declaration of love for the genre and a challenge to the status quo.
The Duo Behind the Madness
At the heart of Fat Brain is Julian Ellis, a deft guitarist and charismatic vocalist whose nimble fingers dance across strings in a way that evokes the spirit of rock legends while carving out a unique identity. Alongside him is Micael Karlsson, a powerhouse drummer whose rhythmic precision fuels the band’s explosive sound. The duo’s chemistry is palpable, their ability to meld punk-infused garage rock with elements of the psychedelic and the avant-garde elevates their music to a level that feels both timeless and timely.
Recording in a Creative Oasis
Death to False Zamrock was recorded at Studio Quaalude, a creative oasis known for its supportive environment and innovative sound engineering. Here, the duo collaborated with Oliver Dahl, whose production expertise perfectly complements Fat Brain’s vision. The EP captures the raw essence of their live performances, where the energy is palpable, and the connection with the audience is visceral. Dahl’s ability to balance grit with clarity allows each track to shine while maintaining that deliciously chaotic spirit at the heart of all classic garage rock.
Aesthetic and Artwork
The EP’s cover art, a striking visual creation by Jonas Hemlin, serves as the perfect introduction to the auditory experience within. Featuring a kaleidoscope of color and shape, the artwork mirrors the adventurous spirit of the music itself. Hemlin’s design pays homage to the late 1960s and early 1970s psychedelic rock scene while simultaneously embodying the raw, unfiltered essence of Fat Brain’s sound. This duality encapsulates the band’s ethos, a triumph of authenticity over the artificial.
A Journey Through Sound
The EP opens with the title track, Devil’s Son, a blistering, pithy anthem that immediately sets the tone for what’s to come. The song’s lyrics are a critique of the superficial trends that often plague the music industry, echoing sentiments expressed by artists from the punk and new wave movements of the past. This is followed by Dead Man, a track that seamlessly merges catchy hooks with thought-provoking lyrics, drawing inspiration from the rebellious spirit of the counterculture.
Other standout tracks include I Want A Dog, a garage punk romp that takes listeners on a trip through swirling soundscapes, and You’re In My Brain. Each song an exploration, a sonic adventure showcasing the band’s versatility while remaining firmly rooted in the garage rock tradition.
The Zamrock Connection
The EP’s title is a nod to the Zamrock movement, a vibrant yet often overlooked genre that emerged in Zambia during the 1970s. Bands like W.I.T.C.H. and The Peace were known for their unique blend of psychedelic rock, funk, and traditional African music, creating a sound that was both innovative and culturally significant. By referencing Zamrock, Fat Brain not only pays homage to a rich musical heritage but also emphasizes their commitment to authenticity in a world increasingly dominated by conformist sounds.
Available Now
Death to False Zamrock is available through Abrasive, a division of the Swedish indie label Strawtown Records, ensuring that this EP reaches both vinyl aficionados and streaming enthusiasts alike. Available as a 45 RPM vinyl release, the physical format reverberates through the golden era of rock n roll while inviting the latest generation of listeners to experience the joy of vinyl.
As we celebrate the release of Fat Brain’s inaugural EP, it’s clear that this duo from Malmö is poised to make waves in the rock scene. With Death to False Zamrock, they have crafted a collection of songs that are not only a testament to their musicality but also a rallying cry for authenticity in an industry often overshadowed by trends and artifice.
So turn up the volume, grab a copy of this explosive debut, and immerse yourself in the chaotic beauty of Fat Brain’s Death to False Zamrock, a fearless exploration of sound and spirit that undoubtedly deserves its place as Rock N Roll Fashionistas’ Album of the Week.