Chicago-based band The Przmatics is set to release their second full-length LP, “The Hope & The Hurt“, under Oakley Avenue Records. This album blends R&B, indie rock, soul, and Chicago blues into a thoughtful reflection on the balance between optimism and realism. If you are looking for a little something to hold on to and to seek clarity in a foggy life you’re living in the present, this might be the comfort and the answer you’re looking for.
The Hope & The Hurt captures the idea of hope and pain existing together and how they intertwine and influence each other. The Przmatics, a Chicago-based band, was formed in 2012 by producer/multi-instrumentalist Mike Przygoda as an outlet for his songwriting. Przygoda, known for his diverse production work across genres and composing for major theaters, is joined by bassist Ausberto Acevedo, keyboardist Nick Gutierrez, and lead singer/guitarist Nu Moon, who co-wrote much of their latest album. The band’s sound is enriched by contributions from drummer Barry Bennett, saxophonist Chris Greene, and guitarist Cruinne Cothrom, Przygoda’s former music teacher.
The Hope & The Hurt was recorded at Chicago’s famous Electrical Audio studios in just four and a half days. It features 11 original songs written mainly by Nu Moon and Mike Przygoda. The album starts with Find Love, which has smooth, soulful instrumentation and calming vocals. You can tell the band members are experts in their craft, with each solo highlighting their skill. The subtle shaker in the background adds a special touch to the track. The song’s message is about seeking acceptance in a judgmental world, blending soulful blues and R&B grooves, while Nu Moon’s expressive vocals move smoothly through the melodies. This can also be noticed in the track Wait A Minute.
The second track And I Mean It gives a cinematic vibe with its spacey string section but a groovy vibe because of bass. It has with chiming guitars and rolling synths. This is one of two amazing instrumental tracks in this LP along with Find Love Interlude and Highground which is more on the slow emotional ambient and melancholic side.
Don’t Give Up has uplifting tempo and melody with a groovy bass and a very catchy melody especially the chorus part. The vocal quality is top-notch and really highlighted in this track. The lyrics talks about appreciating all the people and things that are not giving up on her and making it an inspiration to keep going. Songs like When I’m Breaking and Look At The Stars poetically look at how to stand through global events from war to migration over pulsating electronics.
Blame is full of regrets and realization. This is my favorite track as it has the revenge vibe and the fighter aura. It has a very smooth instrumental with a perfect vocal performance that truly fits the vibe of the song. The perfect drums and synths shines through this track. Phoenix gives a heavier style with its fuzzy electric guitar the jazz vibe is still there. The vocal performance and lyrics in this track was simple but really hits. It is also catchy and easy to remember like a hook.
The Final track and the title track The Hope & The Hurt will surely make you close your eyes and vibe with the music. This is another favorite because the vibe really pulls you. The smooth vocals and the rich instrumentation and musicality will let you know that The Przmatics are really professional and know their thing, and the trumpet solo gave the track a whole twist and vibe. This is indeed a great title track for an album.
The overall vibe of the album is such a comforting and healing experience. It feels like a hug from a friend in times of doubt and crisis. It really captured the essence of the contrasts that the themes of the album carried. It captures the essence of how we go from the highs and the lows of life and paired it with beautiful lyricism and melody. Because of these, it became more empathetic to its listeners which also doubles as the album’s charisma. The ability to convey multitudes of emotions in an album is such a feat to achieve, and The Przmatics delivered.
If you want to indulge more in The Przmatics’s music and world of storytelling, be sure to follow them on their social media accounts, and of course, to listen to their music, subscribe and follow their accounts across different music platforms.
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About the Author
Angel Mariah Rodiel – Mari to the people she’s fond of – is a BA Literature student currently studying in Central Luzon State University. Writing, arts, and music are some of the things she’s been most passionate about ever since she was a kid. Mari’s little dream is to build a band that will open for Paramore’s concert someday. Pop-punk and alternative rock are her comfort music genres, K-pop and J-rock comes close as third and fourth.
