SINGLE REVIEW: The August Guns - "Be Not Burned Up"
The August Guns offers purely epic songwriting mastery in Be Not Burned Up
Written by JD Walker
Some bands just know how to write a song. When the track has a certain magic about it to where it crescendos and swells into the precipice of emotion, both the listener and the band will know what they’ve just experienced. The August Guns recently released a song that fits this description perfectly with their latest effort, “Be Not Burned Up.”
“Be Not Burned Up” starts off as a moody, tonal, and ambient tune but never stops building. From the first note through the first verse, it’s apparent that the group has an energy slowly building throughout the song before reaching a dramatic climax with the last chorus. The group draws a variety of different sounds and voicings in “Be Not Burned Up” that range from heavily distorted rhythm guitars to crisp, shimmering delay leads (and that’s just with guitar). The rhythmic choice of the group was spot on, bringing a high velocity to the parts of the song that needed it while not hesitating to dip into a tasteful groove. The vocals of each of the members worked in perfect tandem, harmonizing to the point of bringing chills to the listener.
The August Guns has a beginning that’s rooted in history - inspired by the book “The Guns of August”, an epic historical account of the dawn of World War II, the Iowa trio are no strangers to stellar songwriting. Having formed in 2015, the trio composed of Micah Smith (guitar/vocals), Kirk Phillips (bass/vocals), and Royce Alaniz (drums/vocals) truly have something unique to offer. Their approach to dynamics really leaves an awe-inspiring effect on the listener. The three fill out the sound of a full lineup that few trios have managed to successfully execute. With their complex rhythms, epic soundscapes, breathtaking harmonies, and visceral screams, the group truly leaves nothing left to be desired of a rock group.
“Be Not Burned Up” is a special song from the first listen. All great songs start with a wonderful arrangement but are predicated on thorough execution - The August Guns knows this and acts on it well. This group truly has remarkable sonic dynamics both in how they write songs and how they play their instruments - it’s an exciting prospect to live in a world where they’re making music together. The August Guns has as bright of a future as any and are poised to continue their journey together as a band that’s meant to make music together.