Back in January we introduced Beautiful Extension Cord, the new album from Boston-based outfit (T-T)b forthcoming via Disposable America. The act has “carved out a niche combining the hectic energy of Anamanaguchi with indie rock and power pop,” as we wrote, with 2021 EP Suporma “typif[ying] how the project manages to push chiptune beyond its assumed limitations.” Lead single ‘Hey, Creepshow’ showed how the new album furthers this style. “A song packed full of intricate details which nevertheless carries its own momentum and weight,” we continued, “retaining the chiptune sounds of the past but as one element among many rather than the central novelty. What results swings between atmospheric lulls and fond singalong choruses, and comes to form its own cathartic release.”
With Beautiful Extension Cord set for release at the beginning of April, (T-T)b have returned with new track ‘Bug on the Ceiling’. With the chiptune sensibilities again pushed back into a supporting role, the song offers a weighty indie rock style that leans towards acts like Greet Death and Tuxis Giant, and the result blurs the line between playfulness, emotion, nostalgia and catharsis. There’s no small amount of reflection and regret with stories of lives in basements and favourite bands breaking up, but the chorus burns through any torpor with an infectious brightness and heft. You get the sense that things are always tilting towards the affirming energy and repeated refrain of the closing minutes, as though quite literally transcending that which came before.
Photo by @bigbabyintoyland