Since their inception, Grandmas House have been making a name for themselves. Bursting onto the scene in 2020, the Bristol act landed on my radar with ‘Always Happy’ – a fearless tune that opened our eyes to a slice of Punk that resonated heavily with us. Leaving a lasting impression that quickly made them a new favourite.
Three years later and they return with Who Am I, a second EP that despite its modest time, delivers a memorable experience that firmly justifies all of the buzz surrounding the trio. It’s the best seven minutes I’ve ever had.
‘Body’ kicks things off with everything you could want from Grandmas House: a driven rhythm section, deep-rooted guitars, and energetic vocals. The combination of Yasmin Berndt’s and Poppy Dodgson’s vocals adds a chaos to their music that is unparalleled. Here they deliver an anthem to those who feel uncomfortable in their skin as they bring a thunderous performance with bold imagery and statements throughout.
It sets the standard high and follows into ‘How Does It Feel?’, which sets off at a blistering pace to illustrate the disconnect between two individuals as they endure a breakup. Sung in both English and French, it perfectly displays the confusion and explosion of angst as it tears through the airwaves in another scintillating performance.
Through the debris of a relationship comes ‘Desire’. A song that revels in the thrill and excitement of a new connection. While it lets loose at the expected pace, it does offer slight moments of calm to catch its breath before erupting with the EPs biggest chorus yet. A clear outburst of emotion pours out of the speakers as the instrumental cascades behind it makes it feel authentic and real.
Who Am I closes proceedings with its title track. A song written for the Gemini’s of the world (thank you), it tries to meander through the negative traits of the twin sign through a clear and direct manner. Bolstered by its simple, but effective, riff, it brings an honest set of lyrics discussing the constant rotation of masks before questioning “WHO AM I” in a huge chorus that ends things on a high.
Grandmas House deliver the goods once again. Who Am I is a hard-hitting, superb listen that makes a mark in spite of its short stay. Certainly, an EP that will continue to be lauded throughout the year. They must have proven by now to you that they are ones to watch.