With each ensuing release, the Austin band White Denim keeps reinventing itself. The quartet debuted almost a decade ago with a muscular mix of funk and punk, eventually folding in jazz, folk and psychedelic touches over the years. Their songs can be complex creations, full of instrumental turns that would make Steely Dan fans blush.
But it’s important to not forget that White Denim can rock. “Holda You (I’m Psycho),” the first single from Stiff, the band’s sixth studio album, simultaneously struts and sprints. “Get Ready! I’m coming! I’m gonna have what’s mine,” bellows James Petralli as the band explodes behind him. There can be no disagreement there.
Stiff is out on March 25 on Downtown Records.
