Single Review: Don’t

Don’t is the latest release from Auckland punk 3-piece Lookin Up, and it is gritty and heavily distorted.

Starting with a riff that is heavily reminiscent to vibe of KoRN’s Right Now, Don’t emerges into a surprisingly melodic track despite the heaviness. While instrumentally there is a similarity to the funky styling of Dead Favours, their overall sound is more in line with the upbeat style of Royal Blood and Highly Suspect.

Just over two minutes in length, the track hits that middle ground between hardcore punk tracks that will often run for less than a minute, and the formulaic rock that sits at 3.5 minutes. The vibe follows that same trend, with heavily distorted guitar that is fast paced, but not manic. The highly melodic sound is a surprise from a punk group emerging from the hardcore scene, but a welcome surprise.

Great pacing that is relentless throughout, and good variation between the layering of the riffs to keep it interesting. Especially loved the switch between the left and right during the breakdown at the outro which makes full use of the stereo speaker systems.

Don’t has a great hooky riff, with some easy to chant along with lyrics, that could easily become a popular hit if it finds its exposure. Definitely worth checking out.

Review written by Alex Moulton