Shelf Lives - 'All The Problems'
The hard truth is heard loud and clear on Shelf Lives “All The Problems”.
Punk blenders Shelf Lives who have now resided in South London are cooking up electro - pop - punk tracks allowing them to burst onto the scene on a whole new level. Now they have released their new single ’All The Problems.’ But this time baking up a soft punk track.
‘All The Problems’ isn’t your traditional punk track, that is all about go hard or go home. This track has a smooth gooey vibe. With soft vocals and layed melodies that sit more into the pop punk realm. Shelf Lives still bring the Punk attitude as they carry the meaning of the track. ‘All The Problems’ is told through third person to emphasise the social issue we have with masculinity. Dealing with their mental health, showing emotion and seeking help can be seen as not manly. For Shelf Lives, this issue is a big tackle especially in a song. With lyrics such as “I know he can’t stomach what you give him for free” and “Tell me something you like about yourself” is quite the statement and getting straight to the point. Their is no messing around in creating awareness to this social issue through music and that is what Shelf Lives is about. Taking on real issues is true punk, sticking to punk’s rebellious rising origin.
The songwriting structure of “All The Problems” is an effective. Singing in unison on the chorus is powerful while still keeping light tone vocals. Having Sabrina (lead vocals) singing the verses solo and Jonny (Guitarist/producer) singing the bridge. Then coming together on chorus, is like them holding out their hand ready for you to get it. It’s a caring side that shows off their own connection to the track. “All The Problems” has that heartfelt nature about it being slower in way of vocal runs and melodies which does make you hold your breath as you hear and feel each note and lyric. But don’t worry in true Shelf Lives fashion, the track is still groovy and on fire. Just on whole new level, you need to experience the just under 3 minute moment to believe how powerful it is.
Words by Victoria Lewis
