Sequined Mess by Psychic Wheels: A Post-Punk Gem You Didn’t Know You Needed
Alright, let’s talk about Sequined Mess, the 2012 album from Psychic Wheels that somehow flew under my radar until recently. And man, am I glad I stumbled upon it! This record is like a time capsule of moody post-punk vibes mixed with pop hooks and rock grit—basically, the perfect storm for anyone who digs their music raw but still catchy.
First off, big shoutout to Spencer Morgan and Molly Davis, whose vocals are all over this thing. They trade lead duties throughout the album, giving each track its own personality. The band hails from the US and released this gem via Spinning Records, but what really makes it stand out is how unpolished yet intentional everything feels. It’s not trying too hard to impress—it just does.
Now, onto the tracks. There’s one tune called “Strawberry Sunshine” that stuck in my head immediately. I mean, how can you not love a song title like that? The acoustic guitar work by Neil Galloway gives it this warm, almost summery vibe (despite being kinda dark lyrically). But then Kate Morgan jumps in with backing vocals that add this haunting layer—it’s like sunshine filtered through clouds on an overcast day. Honestly, every time I hear it, I picture driving down some deserted highway at dusk. Not sure why, but hey, that’s the magic of music, right?
Another standout has to be “You’re Gonna Die (Before You Fall In Love)”. Yeah, cheery title, I know. But damn, this track hits different. Between Molly Davis’ basslines and Adam Scoppa’s percussion, there’s this driving rhythm that pulls you in. Plus, the organ played by Kate Morgan adds this eerie church-like vibe that contrasts perfectly with the biting lyrics. It’s one of those songs where you find yourself singing along even though you probably shouldn’t because, well, the message ain’t exactly uplifting.
The whole album was recorded and mixed by Adam Smith and Spencer Morgan, which explains why it sounds so cohesive despite having such varied styles. Oh, and props to Adam Scoppa for pulling double duty on percussion AND artwork—he clearly had his hands full!
What strikes me most about Sequined Mess is how effortlessly it blends genres without feeling forced. One moment you’re vibing to something straight outta the ‘80s post-punk scene, and the next you’re humming along to a poppy chorus that could’ve been ripped from a modern indie playlist. It’s messy in the best way possible—the kind of mess you wanna dive into again and again.
And here’s the random thought I’ll leave you with: If this album were a person, it’d probably be wearing mismatched socks, eyeliner smudged just enough to look cool, and carrying a sketchpad filled with doodles of strawberries and skulls. Weird analogy? Maybe. But weird works for Psychic Wheels.
So yeah, give Sequined Mess a spin if you haven’t already. Trust me, your ears will thank you later.
