A masterclass in relentless authenticity
The moment “Straitjacket” starts, you know exactly what you are in for, well constructed, aggressive punk rock that knows exactly what it is. No compromises
Based around primary songwriters Jay Burleigh and Daniel Murray, Memories From Tomorrow have spent the last four years providing the kick up the arse that the modern punk scene needs. Less corporatisation, less bullshit, more anger, more authenticity and more “Straight to the point” songwriting.
With Straitjacket that authenticity could not be clearer. An old fashioned no frills, non melodic punk vocal greets the driving guitars within 7 seconds and you know where you’re going. Dr Martens at the ready, pass me the safety pin. This song goes beyond the frustrated three chord sloppiness of early punk, this has been constructed out of years of musical experience. Punk is like chess, easy to play, hard to play well. Memories from tomorrow are here to show they are the grandmasters.
Guitar melodies without going overboard, solid drum work which serves the song perfectly, lyrics which speak directly to the audience. This is not Daniel and Jay’s first rodeo, they know how to construct a song. Punk that seems simple and effortless doesn’t just come together from nowhere, it takes years of honing your craft.
From a production standpoint, is this perfection? No. Would I want it to be? No. Turning this into some autotuned fantasy would be like putting make up and a wig on Tyson Fury. Pointless, a bit disturbing and it would detract from how deadly he is. Good punk rock is like Sushi, if it ain’t raw, it ain’t right.
These guys are the real deal and they are here to stay. Using their songwriting prowess to showcase some of the best young musicians West of the Tamar, they’ve supported Stiff little fingers, they’ve supported conflict and I don’t think it’ll be long until I’m writing “They’ve supported Memories From Tomorrow” as a compliment about another band.
Back in the studio this year, we can’t wait to hear what comes next!
Influences
Pop Punk
Street Punk
Scandinavian Sleaze
Classic Rock
TLDR
Punk Rock done right. Guitar work which is unbelievably clever in its simplicity. A rhythm section as tight as a nun’s nasty and a vocal line delivered with the aggression the lyrics deserve. If your looking or a ballad or a Berklee Graduate’s prog masterpiece, piss off. If you’re looking to feel something then MFT have you covered.
Verdict: 4.5/5 These guys are ones to watch. Catch them on the socials below. Show them some love.
