Bristol-based rock trio Sunglasz Vendor have released their new single “Was On Fire”, a track that explores the depths of romantic solitude and unrequited love. The song opens with harsh mechanical screeching before settling into a stop-start rhythm that allows singer-guitarist Rafi Cohen to unpack themes of despair. Recorded with producer Joseph Futak in Hither Green, this release sees the band embracing a more maximalist sound compared to their previous work. The group formed in early 2023 from members of Bristol’s avant-garde scene including Bingo Fury and Ex-Agent.
On the new single, Cohen offers: “’Was On Fire’ documents the feeling of being past it – like the best is behind you and the only way is down.” The lyrics present bleak visions of lonesome life interspersed with sardonic wordplay. This track is the second single from their recent recording sessions, following the success of “I’ll Do To You Yourself” which received support from BBC 6 Music and KEXP. This record is a daringly skittish and raw explosion of rock energy. The band combines the familiar hooks of rock radio with a sense of free-form anarchy.
The trio will mark the release with a four-date tour across the United Kingdom this February. Their live performances have previously earned them opening slots for notable acts such as The Breeders and Squid. The band features a classic guitar-bass-drums lineup where all elements grate against each other to create an anthemic cacophony. Following their debut album ‘Unwinding’, which arrived in May of last year, the group continues to gain momentum within the indie-rock landscape. Fans can catch their impassioned sets in York, Sheffield, Cardiff, and Bristol throughout the month.
Live Dates:
February 6 – York, Young Thugs Studio
February 7 – Sheffield, Hatch
February 12 – Cardiff, Porter’s
February 24 – Bristol, The Croft