When The Upsides put out their debut single in early 2022, V13, in the midst of a sparkling introductory review, raved that the group was “onto something big”.
As the NYC alt-rock act gets ready to release their second EP, it seems as if they’ve captured the full scale of their potential. This is a collection of tracks that feels self-assured in scope – simultaneously fresh and timeless, and, maybe most importantly, incredibly fun.
First track “Undercover Retro”, from which the EP takes its name, is arguably the album’s standout, and certainly nothing short of a full-out groove. Driven by a funk-inspired bassline performed by Ken Rich, the song is held down by tight bass drum, hi-hat, and snare, and highlighted by shimmering guitar chords that play nicely against a quirky vibrato lead line. It all sounds straight from the 70s, in the best way possible.
“Peppermint under your tongue
Got my low tops laced up
Looking for somebody who’s here”
Frontman Matt Fullam’s lyrics are delivered with conviction, conveying the kind of energy that makes it easy to envision a live-setting singalong. They’re abstract enough to offer myriad interpretations, but at bottom, they seem to rest in a rediscovered, retro love – the kind that keeps coming back.
“Show Me”, the second song on the EP, is more straightforward summer-guitar rock. Sliding electric melodies form the basis of a palette that comes close to conjuring shades of The Edge. But despite the arena-ready atmosphere (which reaches an apex with a choir of smooth “oohs” in the chorus), the song stays grounded with an earthy energy. It’s probably best listened to driving alone, with the windows down.
Third song “Midnight Lightning” is a bouncing ode to long-term love. The guitar tones are twangy, reflecting the subtle touch of country that pervades the entire track. Both in subject matter and in sound, it feels intimate and comfortable, like a good Americana anthem.
The EP closes with “Bonnie & Clyde”. It’s the most story-driven song on the record, and from the opening lines, Fullam’s vocals shine. They’re placed upfront in the mix, allowing for the nuances of his articulation to add weight to the narrative.
“Feet up on the front dash
Like Bonnie and Clyde
Catching my reflection
With storm clouds on your eyebrows”
A twangy lead guitar goes back and forth with the lead vocal melodies, lending the song a conversational air. The overall impression is something like the feeling of sitting on a back porch, listening to a good friend tell a wistful story. It’s a fitting conclusion to a diverse four-track record – and confirmation that The Upsides, even at the calmer side of their wide range, are always a good time.
Undercover Retro was recorded at Grand Street Recording in Brooklyn, NY, and produced by Jake Lummus. It’s the second EP released by The Upsides in 2022, following April’s critically acclaimed Patterns. The band will be supporting the release with a series of live shows in NYC throughout the rest of the year.
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