Echo Scale™:★★★☆☆(3.3/5)
Boston, UK’s own Tiny Forehead are no strangers to genre-bending, and their latest single, “Be My Plane Crash,” is a testament to their audacious spirit. Drawing inspiration from the raw energy of ’60s garage, the grit of ’70s UK punk, the brooding atmosphere of ’80s post-punk and goth, and even the soulful grooves of Northern Soul, Tiny Forehead has carved out a sound that’s distinctly their own. With a diverse age range among its members (from 19 to “very north of 50”) and a shared love for kebabs, this band is as eclectic as their musical influences. Having already garnered significant US and UK radio play and graced stages like Adelphi Hull and Camden Eye London, they’re clearly making waves.
From the jump, “Be My Plane Crash” pulls you in with an indie curiosity and some intriguing synth work, setting a quirky tone that immediately grabs your attention. The verse kicks in with a rapid-fire delivery, keeping the listener on their toes. One of the song’s strongest assets is its dynamic pace; it shifts gears frequently, maintaining interest throughout. While some transitions might feel a little “saggy,” this slight disjointedness actually plays into the band’s favour, adding to the weird, unsettling vibes they’ve crafted. It’s a thoughtfully constructed track that successfully achieves its aim of creating an atmosphere of intrigue.
Vocal Turbulence and Triumphs
The female vocalist is undoubtedly the star of this aerial escapade. Her harmonies are expertly written, and her vocal lines are nothing short of brilliant. Her voice perfectly complements the song’s unique flavour, showcasing a remarkable talent. However, the same can’t be said for the male vocals. While clearly aiming for a post-punk, surf-rock vibe akin to The B-52’s, it unfortunately veers more towards “local crazy person yelling at the bin” than a compelling performance. It’s an ambitious attempt, but one that sadly misses the mark.
Instrumental Precision
The guitars in “Be My Plane Crash” are solidly written and performed, perfectly aligning with the song’s genre-hopping nature. While they could be a tad louder in places, the standout moment is the tasteful guitar solo. It serves the song beautifully, a clear indication that this is the work of a seasoned guitarist who understands that true artistry lies in serving the song, not just showing off. The bass guitar, though not the focal point, delivers a well-thought-out performance that allows the track to breathe and flourish. It’s the work of a musician who knows how to underpin a song with subtlety and skill.
As for the drums, the performance is undeniably tight. The drummer stays firmly in the pocket, providing a rock-solid foundation for the entire track. A couple of production choices stood out: the snare has a bit of a “slappy” quality for my taste, and the kick drum could benefit from a little more bite in its EQ. These are just small points on an otherwise stellar rhythmic display.
Final Descent
Ultimately, “Be My Plane Crash” is weird, and that’s precisely its charm. Tiny Forehead has set out to create something truly distinctive, and they’ve succeeded. If you’re a fan of bands that boldly traverse the sonic landscapes of garage, punk, post-punk, goth, and even Northern Soul, you’re sure to appreciate this mature, well-constructed piece of musical artistry. “Be My Plane Crash” is a welcome addition to the Echo Rebel playlist, ready to keep you on your toes and make you think. Well done, Tiny Forehead. Give them a like and follow on the socials below:
