The Racing Pulses: A Rock Band Embracing Authenticity with ‘Subtle Hurts’

Staying True to One Style

While much of modern music seems to prefer to blend genres, bands like The Racing Pulses prefer to stick to one style, and with rock releases like ‘Subtle Hurts’ we understand their reasoning.

From Collaboration to Solo Success

The Racing Pulses first caught our attention through their collaboration with emerging Wisconsin artist, Mane Thompson. Now, we are thrilled to showcase their own musical endeavors. Founded in 2012 by the talented singer-songwriter and frontman Kristian Petrov Iliev, The Racing Pulses have established themselves as a vital part of Madison, Wisconsin’s dynamic music scene. Their debut album, ‘Nothing to Write Home About’, released in 2017, garnered both popular and critical acclaim, climbing the Billboard charts and leading to a tour in Bulgaria just a year later.

Influences and Inspirations

Iliev lists Arctic Monkeys among his primary influences, yet he brings something uniquely personal to his sound, drawing from his own life experiences and Bulgarian heritage. With infectious hooks and lyrics brimming with sincerity, The Racing Pulses prove to be a formidable creative force in the rock genre.

Exploring ‘Subtle Hurts’

Their latest release, ‘Subtle Hurts’, was crafted with the expertise of Grammy-nominated mastering engineer Brian Lucey (known for his work with The Black Keys, Juanes, and Lizzo). This track showcases a blend of swagger and quiet, spiteful venom. The foundation is set with a fuzzed-out bassline, wailing metallic guitar riffs, and powerful tom drums, all underscoring Iliev’s vocals, which carry a haunting sense of despair. He candidly addresses the emotional toll these ‘subtle hurts’ can inflict, reflecting a universal struggle to remain authentic in the face of adversity.

A Message of Authenticity

As Iliev articulates, “I feel the weight, like many artists do, of expectation in the music industry and of the need to make money, to be entertaining, to fulfill the expectations that I have and that others have of me. The question is: How do we manage or cope with them?”

The Music Video: A Visual Exploration

The music video for ‘Subtle Hurts’ opens with a striking abstract painting by local artist Chase Bisson. Created in collaboration with Madison filmmaker Claudia Krogmeier, the video exudes an off-kilter atmosphere that complements the song’s themes. In the clip, Iliev, armed with his iconic Eastwood Moonsault guitar, performs alongside his bandmates in a laid-back manner. However, chaos ensues when they begin stuffing cake into their faces, transforming the scene into a surreal mess of sweet despair.

The Racing Pulses as Artists

Even amid the unsettling visuals, the band continues to play, underscoring that The Racing Pulses are more than mere performers; they are artists with a purpose. Iliev expresses this sentiment beautifully: “As both an artist and an intellectual, I know and feel a duty to fight evil, educate others, and draw attention to the answers I believe could be most beneficial.” This commitment to authenticity and social consciousness resonates deeply with their audience.

Conclusion

‘Subtle Hurts’ not only showcases The Racing Pulses’ musical talent but also highlights their dedication to authenticity in a challenging industry. Their ability to convey deep emotions through their music and visuals makes them a band to watch. Discover more about The Racing Pulses and their compelling music on platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok.

FAQs

What genre of music do The Racing Pulses play?

The Racing Pulses primarily play rock music, maintaining a distinct style that sets them apart from genre-blending trends.

When was The Racing Pulses formed?

The band was founded in 2012 in Madison, Wisconsin, by frontman Kristian Petrov Iliev.

What was their debut album?

Their debut album, titled ‘Nothing to Write Home About’, was released in 2017 and received both critical acclaim and commercial success.

Who produced ‘Subtle Hurts’?

‘Subtle Hurts’ was mastered by Brian Lucey, a Grammy-nominated engineer known for his work with several prominent artists.

Where can I watch the music video for ‘Subtle Hurts’?

The music video for ‘Subtle Hurts’ is available on platforms like YouTube, where you can also learn more about the band.