One band we’ve not given much buzz to is VERA. Proper rubbish from a music blog, I know, but the Belfast band have built a name for themselves over the last year. Infact, their last single ‘Skinbag’ has lived in our ears since it came out. Now they return with ‘Ketchup’, and the latest offering proves exactly why we’d like to make amends.
With a swagger flavoured by Jazz tones, VERA’s third single of the year comes in strong with a brazen performance. Oozing with confidence, the song commands you to listen rather than request your attention. Where ‘Skinbag’ had plenty of urgency to get its point across, ‘Ketchup’ takes its time. Its silky instrumentation has the power of big band, and ripples with grooves from its rhythm section. Lyrically, bold statements are laced throughout that make it stand on business, but are paired with self-deprecating imagery to keep things relatable.
It takes no shit, and is fully aware of the ketchup stains on its shirt. But no matter how much mess is made, it’s how you clean up that matters, and VERA clean up good here. They’ve been leading the way for the Irish music scene for a while now, and we’re hoping that it’ll soon culminate in a bigger audience, and maybe a more substantial release too.
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