Artist: Stone Deaf Single: Red Head Genre: Alt Rock Pop, Indie Rock, Rock Release Date: October 30th, 2024
Stone Deaf’s “Red Head” packs a punch from the first chord, channeling the rawness and relentless energy of a band that’s barely a year old but already sounds seasoned. From BBC radio’s “rollicking” praise to sold-out shows in their hometown of Swansea, Stone Deaf’s trajectory has been steep, and it’s easy to see why. “Red Head” isn’t merely a song; it’s a rallying cry for those who’ve endured the toxic push and pull of manipulation, wrapped in a thick coat of distortion, thumping bass, and unapologetic power.
Frontman Michael Pole’s vocals command the track, a blend of raspy defiance and clarity that slices through each verse and chorus with precision. The guitar work nods to Jack White’s distinctively jagged approach, full of saturated distortion and upper octave solos that feel almost manic in their intensity. Stone Deaf channels rock giants here—Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and Catfish and the Bottlemen come to mind, but the similarity stops at influence. This is no mere imitation; it’s the work of a band carving out its space in the scene with unapologetic authenticity.
The bass line, laid down by Travis McDonagh, is anything but a backdrop—it’s a heavy, pulsing force that drives the track forward and injects it with a steady power reminiscent of Queens of the Stone Age’s work. William Walton’s drumming is masterful, recorded to a click track with no reference but pure timing and energy, a testament to his expert grasp of dynamics and timing. Every beat lands like a statement, building up the song’s intensity layer by layer.
James Weaver’s production plays a critical role here, capturing Stone Deaf’s live energy and ensuring it translates into the studio version. This isn’t a polished, pristine recording; it’s gritty and raw, echoing the feeling of a live show packed with adrenaline and edge. By layering guitars minimally, often relying on only two pedals at a time, Weaver captures an unfiltered sound that respects the band’s fierce and unrefined spirit.
Thematically, “Red Head” dives into the experience of manipulation within a souring relationship—a visceral subject mirrored by the song’s jagged sonic edges. It’s a release of pent-up frustration, urging listeners to reclaim their agency and distance themselves from destructive ties. By tackling such a universally resonant theme with grit and conviction, Stone Deaf offers not just catharsis but a sense of solidarity.
For a band just a year into their journey, Stone Deaf is making a statement with “Red Head.” It’s an anthem for rock revivalists who crave that electrifying, heart-pounding experience only high-energy live performances can provide. Anyone who sees them on stage or listens to “Red Head” can expect more than a song—they’re witnessing the birth of a force that is both familiar and thrillingly new.
