Denver, Colorado’s Zephr have been in my rotation for five years now, and this sophomore album continues the trio’s heartfelt version of punk and hardcore that balances both hard-hitting numbers and vulnerable moments of introspection.
It seems like the band puts the best song in the leadoff position, where “Rome” blends post-hardcore and pop-punk into the searing delivery with Rachel Lujan’s well-timed guest pipes. However, “Bitter” follows and is just as great, as smoother singing replaces the throaty vocals and Tyler Merkel’s furious drumming makes an indelible impression.
Deeper into the first half, the swirling post-punk of “Cannery Row” also brings in some timeless rock’n’roll influences, while “Cry To The Dawn” places harmonic singing into the busy yet controlled delivery of melodic punk.
The middle spot is where the title track lives, and it allows for Eamonn Martin and Jim Fitzpatrick’s gruff singing to shine amid the blistering rhythm section, and the sing-alongs of “My Depression” aren’t too far away and even reel in gang vocals for effect.
The most intimate song, “My Memorial Day,” welcomes Cameron Hawk’s mandolin and showcases another, gentler avenue where Zephr shine. “Perfume Memory” exits with Martin’s bass and Fitzpatrick’s guitar fueling the raw songwriting and powerful dynamics that, at six minutes, allows the band to explore and impress us until the end.
Digitally, this is generously available as a “pay-what-you-want” option. Physically, it’s on black vinyl and just 250 copies were pressed. I suggest picking up copies for your friends who like The Lawrence Arms, Jawbreaker, Polar Bear Club, Small Brown Bike, Dillinger Four, Hot Water Music , Midwestern emo or DC influenced post-punk, ’cause Past Lives is probably going to be the best record they’ve heard in many years.
