REVIEW: Taking Over by Lyerr
Lyerr have come back this year with a polished, expressive and assertive anthem that could take over the indie scene if it gained the recognition it deserves. After the first listen, the repeat button was being continuously pressed as I envisaged they will play a huge part in Manchester’s music legacy.
New bands from Manchester will always have a high standard to live up to, following in the footsteps of some of the world’s most influential musicians. Straight away, Lyerr caught my attention with their uniquely-spelt name, helping prove their originality which is essential for new indie bands.
Diving straight in at the deep end, the drums and guitar explode on the first beat — this is the first example of the power this track needs to earn its name ‘Taking Over’. On the repeat of the phrase, we hear the use of imitation as the phrase is played on a higher octave building up to the verse.
The different sounds tighten together in the compelling verse; Kershaw’s drumming maintains an energetic beat that you can’t help bopping your head to, while Magner’s solid bass riff props up the structure of the track. Dominating the instruments, Johnson’s impassioned vocals give ‘Taking Over’ a bad-ass presence as he emphasises and slurs certain words. The lyrics alone are perceptive and flirtatious, creating and playing with the themes of temptation and love.
“I’m only in here for you” — Lyerr
The dedicated lyrics during the chorus are supported by short bursts of backing vocals, generating a whirlwind effect that engulfs the listener into its fiery atmosphere.
“You’re taking over me” — Lyerr
The start of the second verse is punctuated by the word “Impulsively”, and for some reason, this stuck out for me. I loved how it suited the track and raised the bar from the vocabulary used in some songs I’ve heard recently.
“Impulsively I admit I’m yours” — Lyerr
The dynamite-moment of the anthem has to be the bridge and the instrumental: this is where we can hear the accompaniment become less intense before building up again as Johnson is left almost shouting the direct lyrics. The instrumental highlights Greene’s immense guitar work that is the driving force behind this song. It also would be the section capable of igniting a wild mosh pit.
Back in June 2017, the lads released their debut EP, ‘In Principio’, featuring 4 attitude-driven tracks incorporating clever lyrics and strong vocals. I strongly recommend this EP to fans of the iconic ‘Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not’ by Sheffield’s finest: Arctic Monkeys.
I believe that over the years Manchester has gifted us with music everyone will like so this song might be just for you — I highly recommended this song for fans of Courteeners, The Hunna, The Enemy and Oasis.
Let this track take over your playlist now!
This review was originally published on Alternative Atmosphere in 2018.
