HAPPYMESS

Happymess formed in 2019, made up of Elian Dalmasso (vocals & guitar), Dade Ragazzo (bass & vocals) both previously from bands Arms and Elephant, Hannah Courtney (keys & vocals) and Bobby Blackwell (drums).  The band quickly built their reputation across London's grassroots venues for their blistering and fierce performances, playing a wild combination of psych and post-punk elements together with a flair for melodies and cheeky lyrics.  The band released their debut single 'Over The Seasons', which introduced listeners to the less abrasive side of the band.  Recorded by Gavin Bowers at Catch 21 Records in London and Norwich amidst lockdowns, the powerful song flows between dark intimate verses and bright uplifting choruses, whilst the lyrics paint the image of time rolling by and a search to unite.  They have recently released their follow up single 'Running Outta Dreams', which was also recorded by Gavin at Catch 21 Records.  The artwork was designed by Dade and is based on a vibrant painting by great outsider artist and friend Queenie Loftus.  Together they both combined ideas and created a concept juxtaposing a universally known sign over explosive colours to capture the alienation of human beings amidst chaotic times.

'Runnin' Outta Dreams' intertwines the energy of post-punk and the groovy melodies of 60s garage rock to bring a song that has both a driving rhythm from the drums that takes off from the get go, as well as a laid back vibe that pulls you in from the vocal tones and bass line.  The track begins with a psychedelic style guitar riff that rapidly builds into a surging rhythm guaranteed to fill the dance floor.  There is a back and forth groove between the verses and chorus, almost as if they are hitting off each other in a call to answer fashion and that really builds on the liveliness of the track.  The vocals ooze those Beach Boys-esque vocal tones and rich harmonies will definitely hit you with a wall of nostalgia.  The uplifting and cheery instrumentation contrasts the dark lyrics in a way that gives the song that haunting feeling.  Lyrically the song touches on themes such as disillusioned youth, mental health and the demands that society places on people.  There is an anticipation in the undertones of the track that sit on the low frequencies of the bass line and synth elements.  As the song progresses this anticipation builds gradually until it reaches a climatic ending that takes the song out in a positively messy style, that is sure to have you up on your feet dancing your socks off and hitting that repeat button.

INSTAGRAM - happymessband

FACEBOOK - happymessband