Sycamore maple: Scream louder

(Self-published)

Digital

Now available

Icelandic duo Sycamore Tree unveil the pulsating and anthemic new single Scream Louder. Bursting with musicality, catchy melodies and the band’s high-octane alt-rock tendencies, the track captures an accessibility and authentic depth.

The track begins with a flood of atmospheric synths and grows through a wall of tight guitars and rhythmic toms. It captures a tone comparable to Beach House and The haunting vocals of Ágústa Eva Erlendsdottir lull you into a false sense of serenity before the explosive chorus kicks in. A wall of distorted guitars, punchy drums and soaring vocals add a touch of 80s rock to the soundscape, while the words “scream louder” are repeated with a visceral sense of intensity and pent-up anger.

The track builds in intensity as swirling synths create a floating, airy background that contrasts with the sharp, biting guitar sounds, giving the track depth and breadth. The track moves into an ethereal, hypnotic middle section and ends with a dramatic and explosive final chorus. The powerful vocal performance, combined with the infectious energy and massive, stadium-filling sound – enhanced by production from long-time collaborator Arnar Gudjonsson – showcases the duo’s skill as songwriters and performers.

Thematically capturing the essence of youthful defiance and the thrilling quest for self-discovery, Scream Louder tells the story of two Icelandic teenagers who escape the drudgery of everyday life by venturing into the wilderness. Their screams, echoing across Iceland’s vast, untamed landscapes, symbolize a desperate need to break out and find community in a world that often feels isolated.

Accompanied by a beautifully filmed, cinematic, black and white music video, the sonic grandeur of the single is combined with an equally impressive video.

With a rich history of success, Sycamore Tree’s new single is a wonderful addition to their already dazzling catalogue.

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All texts by Simon Lucas-Hughes. You can find more texts by Simon Lucas-Hughes in his author archive.