The Warwickshire-based, self defined, bedroom pop-punkers Dark Days have released ‘Thick Skin’, the follow-up track to their debut single ‘Spending Nights Alone’. Lead vocalist Sam Purcell states “We definitely feel that Thick Skin holds more of an original influence in comparison to Spending Nights Alone.This track showcases more our own influence and our own style coming through. Whilst there are some synonymous moments where you can tell it’s the same band, this release shows us experimenting and trying out new things, whilst still holding onto the elements that make us.
During the lyrical writing process for Thick Skin, Sam took a lot of inspiration from the romantic-comedy Adventureland. Relating heavily to Jesse Eisenberg’s portrayal of James Brennan, Purcell revealed “A Lot of what I write about specifically comes from me being a very awkward teenager and not coping with emotions very well in love and relationships. Growing up, I found myself getting into situations where I mess things up through my own self doubts and insecurities. I got really into writing music at 15, so for me it was a cathartic way to vent those frustrations from a retrospective perspective, so I can move past them. ”
‘Bedroom pop-punk’ was initially an inside joke between the quartet but has since grown into the phrase that defines their dedicated DIY work ethic. Much like their debut single, Thick Skin is a self-produced track, utilising the skills of Everbloom’s vocalist and guitarist Gage Hanson to master the track. The group were heavily influenced by Decade, implementing grittier guitar tones and experimenting with darker and more dissonant chord progressions that nod their head at the modern emo movement. The music video follows this DIY ethic, using behind the scenes footage filmed from an old school, tape recording video camera to formulate a video that gives an intimate insight into the inner workings of the band.
Whilst COVID-19 has delayed their much anticipated desire to play shows, Dark Days are currently working on their debut EP which will be released by the end of 2020. With three new tracks currently in the production phase, these are certainly busy and exciting times for the Warwickshire quartet.
DARK DAYS ARE:
Sam Purcell – (Vocals)
Harry Hemming – (Lead Guitar)
Joe Arnold – (Rhythm Guitar/ Backing Vocal)
Max Matthews – (Drums)
Please consider adding ‘Thick Skin’ to any playlist inclusion you see fit.
