Chicago-based eclectic rockers Varsity is back and bolder than ever with their new album, Fine Forever (via Run for Cover Records). The album’s lead single, “Shaking Hands” is the epitome of a sparkling summer tune.
“Shaking Hands” dances down the streets with bubbly repeating guitar licks which support vocalist Stephanie Smith’s room-filling sound. The band even layers in orchestral string lines leading up to their repeating lyric, “and I wonder and I wonder / if I’m ever going under / and I ain’t got much to prove”. This adds a cinematically refined quality to the otherwise guitar heavy and simplistic arrangement.
As the vocals and guitar toy with one another other, the drums hold down a driving beat. The cherry on top of “Shaking Hands” are the intricately layered harmonies of the chorus. With the addition of these vocals and rhythm guitar, Varsity opens the floodgates of the song at precisely the right climactic moments. This single is packed with a certain summer heaviness that comes hand in hand with small town life while pairing its emotiveness with easy-to-follow melodies.
Stream Shaking Hands below via Soundcloud! To purchase Varsity’s latest album Fine Forever, click HERE.
Have you listened to Shaking Hands? If so, let us know what you think below in the comment section. To keep up with Varsity follow them across your favorite social media platforms including Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
