Sword II: A Journey Through Atlanta’s Evolving Music Scene

The Rise of a Unique DIY Culture in Atlanta

In the heart of Atlanta, a vibrant DIY scene flourished about a decade ago, fueled by creativity and a diverse range of musical influences. Venues like WonderRoot, the surreal Rowdy Dowdy, and the iconic Mammal Gallery became hotspots for a cultural explosion, where fans could witness an eclectic mix of art and sound. A typical $5 show could feature everything from garage-rock psychedelia to blistering noise sets, seamlessly blending with the burgeoning SoundCloud rap scene that would eventually take the world by storm. This period felt like a renaissance for local artists, yet the momentum began to wane as many independent venues shuttered their doors.

The Birth of Sword II

Amidst the decline of this vibrant scene, Sword II emerged as a beacon of resilience. The band comprises three members, each with a rich history in Atlanta’s underground music landscape. Mari González, formerly part of the dream-pop trio Kibi James, joins forces with Travis Arnold, guitarist for the hardcore band Playytime, and Certain Zuko, known for his work in indie-rock band Sea Ghost and as a founding member of the influential rap collective Larry League. Together, they formed Sword II, channeling their experiences into a sound that reflects both the chaos and beauty of their surroundings.

From Screeching Guitars to Thought-Provoking Lyrics

Since releasing their 2020 EP, Sword II has honed their craft, creating a sound characterized by piercing guitars and haunting lyrics. Their debut album, Spirit World Tour, serves as a raw and abrasive reflection of the social unrest surrounding the Black Lives Matter and #StopCopCity movements. This album captures the isolation and urgency felt during tumultuous times, but the band has since evolved, infusing their music with a renewed sense of hope and optimism.

Electric Hour: A Shift in Sound

The band’s latest project, Electric Hour, marks a significant departure from their earlier work. Emphasizing beauty over brutality, the album features softer tones, lush harmonies, and an overall more intimate sound. Interestingly, this sonic evolution was partly a result of the recording environment. The old farmhouse where they recorded had faulty wiring, prompting the use of acoustic guitars to avoid electrical hazards. This led to a collaborative writing process, with members passing guitars around and crafting lyrics together, rather than relying on digital splicing techniques.

Songwriting and Structure

Electric Hour showcases the trio’s ability to write compelling songs, focusing on straightforward structures that highlight their lyrical prowess. While the album leans into a more accessible sound, it still allows for moments of technical flair, particularly in tracks like “Disconnection” and “Halogen,” where they unleash their musical intensity in euphoric outros.

Conclusion

Sword II represents the resilience of Atlanta’s music scene, evolving from the ashes of a once-thriving DIY culture into a band that captures the complexities of their environment. With their latest offering, Electric Hour, they demonstrate that even in the face of adversity, beauty and creativity can thrive. As they continue to push boundaries and explore new sonic landscapes, Sword II stands poised to make a lasting impact on the music world.

FAQs

What are some notable influences on Sword II’s music?

Sword II draws inspiration from a variety of genres, including garage rock, noise music, and hip-hop, reflecting the eclectic nature of Atlanta’s DIY scene.

What themes are explored in their music?

Their lyrics often delve into social issues, personal struggles, and the complexities of human emotions, particularly in relation to movements like Black Lives Matter.

How did the recording environment affect their sound?

The faulty wiring of the farmhouse led them to use acoustic guitars, resulting in a softer, more intimate sound for their album Electric Hour.

What is the significance of their collaboration process?

The collaborative approach to songwriting fosters a sense of unity among the band members, allowing them to create music that reflects their shared experiences and perspectives.