Lady Bird - Brainwash Machine Setting

Kent outfit Lady Bird’s latest punk offering is certainly aptly named. ‘Brainwash Machine Setting’ is a real exercise in mental catharsis. The EP’s themes get progressively deeper and more introspective; like an emotional spin cycle, moving from light rinse to a heavy soak. The lyrics draw heavily from homegrown social commentaries, giving the band a rare knack for tapping into universal experiences - much like The Streets’ Mike Skinner or a punk rock John Prine. Yes, at times there is a tendency to stick to a well trodden sonic path, but when the band allow themselves the space to spread out the results are captivating. A prime example of this is stand out acoustic track ‘Nice DLC’, which tackles the difficult subject of losing friends to suicide with a refreshing sense of honesty and charm. An entrancing set of stories that lets us walk in the band’s shoes.