The Glaswegian band are back with their second release of the year, this time commenting on the habits and expectations of masculinity

If you visit Speak Easy Circus’ Instagram page, you’ll find that their bio states they are “too horn-ey to be indie, too heavy to be jazz” and “too experimental to be funk”. In other words, they don’t exactly fit into a single genre (I mean, who does?), but their mashup of styles in this single is a chaotic masterpiece.

A smooth bassline, simple snare, and haunting vocals carry us through much of the song, which allows the poignant lyrics to breakthrough. Inherited ideologies and practices about being a ‘real’ man tell a meaningful story, and the track almost seems to warn against falling into these learned behaviours. As the song takes on a fuller shape, a rogue yet hugely satisfying saxophone steps into the mix and adds a funky jazz element to the otherwise mellow vibe.  

The song itself follows a steady crescendo that embodies the discussions of violence and confrontation in the lyrics, culminating in frenzied melody lines across both instruments and vocals. The wild change caught me totally off guard and, at first listen, seemed like a questionable choice. But the more I listen to it, the more I find myself eager for that eclectic break. 

Speak Easy Circus do not fit in a singular mould, that’s for damn sure. Not only does this track manage to hit the genres mentioned in their bio, it absolutely nails them. Every single one. 

If that wasn’t enough to sell you on this single, the band are also using it as an opportunity to support the Gaza Emergency Fund. All proceeds will be donated, and you can contribute either via their Spotify or Instagram page.