Brooklyn band Public Practice’s latest release Gentle Grip, is a pristine example of New York’s flourishing post-punk scene. Released in May by Wharf Cat Records, Gentle Grip solidifies Public Practice as the most prolific harbinger of dark, disco-punk. The band’s 2018’s EP, Distance is a Mirror, blew audiences away with memorable tracks like “Bad Girl” and “Foundation”.
Charismatic singer and lyricist Sam York floats above the thumping chaos with mumbling introspections. York is aided by an infallible roster of veteran musicians including guitarist Vince McClelland, bassist Drew Citron and drummer Scott Rosenthal. The ensemble creates an unforgettable album laced with funky basslines, disco grooves and adventurous songwriting. Gentle Grip takes many cues from the Talking Heads, as if David Byrne woke up angry and untrusting but still devoted to the goofy dance moves.
“Compromised” is the album’s stand alone single, a catchy hit about the ethical issues that arise while living in a capitalist society. This message is especially poignant as we enter into this holiday season, York declares “It’s easy to wander under the veil” of ignorance. We pretend everyday that the clothes sold on Amazon are ethically sourced and not by the hands of slave labor, that the phones we use don’t have tragic backstories. York knows “You don’t want to live a lie, but it’s easy,” and wonders how we rationalize our material desires when they actively contribute to systems of oppression and exploitation. “Compromised” is a shining example of how deftly the band tackles existential themes while still having a great time.
On first listen, you may become upset that you can’t see this band live anytime soon. All 12 tracks offer different sonic experimentations, carefully crafted to elicit a physical reaction. The track “My Head” affirms the band’s dual commitment to being punks who like to keep the dance floor full. The song utilizes classic disco techniques like funk guitar and a sampled string section; it’s incredibly catchy and a reprieve from the angst and brooding of other tracks.
The album takes New York City post punk of the ’70s and gives it a fresh face. The body of work has an uncanny ability to lurch from pop hits like “Cities” to the explosive “Each Other.” Citron’s bass lines are present and domineering on each track with punchy grooves, providing the rest of the band a canvas to experiment with various sounds and styles. The dynamic created by Citron is especially evident in the syncopated grooves featured in “Underneath,” which is successively followed by the sinister vamp found on “See You When I Want To.”
The final track titled, “Hesitation” is built around the premise of three instruments playing the same note repeatedly. “Hesitation” does not have the same gusto and flair as the other tracks on the album, but it is ambitious and forces the listener to actively consider what they are hearing. In our fast paced world where attention spans are shorter than ever, great art grabs the listener in the way that “Hesitation” does.
Gentle Grip checks every box as it seamlessly blends the familiar sounds of New York punk with slicing lyrics and danceable rhythms. Each song is unique and thoughtfully crafted, inviting all types of music lovers to enjoy every aspect of this album. We all should be looking forward to seeing these tracks played live in our favorite club in the near future.
Essential Tracks: “Compromised”, “Underneath”, “My Head”
Prerequisites: Gang of Four – Entertainment!, Donna Summer – A Love Trilogy