The compelling "Red Lines" from Werwe like punk chiaroscuro on high

AP Track Review

On the track Red Lines from Werwe, the new project / moniker of Philadelphia based singer-songwriter Steven Martinho, there is a wild sense of abandon and danger like setting ablaze to a field of dry grass while standing in the middle of it. The guitar strums cadence like a punk version of flamenco music in a twisted carnival side show feels feral and possessed. Martinho's vocal presence reminds me of a blend of Issaac Brock (Modest Mouse) and Billy Corgan (Smashing Pumpkins) and with his hushed to sudden eruptions his aesthetic is like punk chiaroscuro on high. The result is totally compelling and I look forward to hearing the self titled Werwe album.

Notes: 

The album was produced by American Trappist but conceptualized by Steve Martinho, Joe Michelini (American Trappist) and Shane Luckenbaugh (Sleepmonster), with additional and notable production advice from Sleepmonster. 

-
Robb Donker 




THE FACTS AS WE KNOW THEM - PRESS NOTES:

On his new project, Philadelphia based singer-songwriter Steven Martinho set out to create the music he's always wanted to make - skillfully crafted pop that remains unpretentious and fun. He taps into and honors his influences while blending them in his own unique way. Simple and catchy yet expertly refined - Werwe creates the kind of tunes that you can't help but sing along with.

Red Lines is placed at track 5, right in the middle of the new self-titled Werwe album.

The album was produced by American Trappist but conceptualized by Steve Martinho, Joe Michelini (American Trappist) and Shane Luckenbaugh (Sleepmonster), with additional and notable production advice from Sleepmonster. 

A number of musicians contributed, including Sleepmonster on drums/percussion and Tim Cambell on pedal steel. The guitars, keys and other noises were split between Steve & American Trappist. 

Steve sang all his own lead vocals and performed all his own stunts, with additional background vocals from Sleepmonster, and a Calvin Johnson impression by American Trappist on Weekend Sun. All parties would like to thank The Dive. 

Produced & Mixed by Joe Michelini/Berlin Studio 

Mastered by Alan Douches / West West Side Music