Wargasm - “Scratchcard Feeling”

SXSW 2022 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 6

Pairs Well With…Nova Twins, Sleigh Bells, Converge

Pure chaos meets eclectic pop in Wargasm’s wild fusion sound, a hardcore duo dipping into punk-pop, indie rock, and hip hop across a series of singles since forming in 2019. Nu-metal riffs, glitch-dance beats, ambient electro-pop, and industrial rock modes find their way into Wargasm’s music, a DGAF attitude truly applied towards songcraft. Even though the UK duo are inherent experimenters, their music is whip-tight as they seamlessly blend so much disparate influences into single tracks. There’s a certain type of patience to their songwriting in the way their tracks build and collapse, making screams and full-volume moments hit harder versus a pedal-down approach wire to wire. The duo pass vocal duties back and forth as well, adding to the dichotomy that defines their ultra-intense music while still being fun and ever-moving. We rarely go this heavy with a SXSW recommendation, but Wargasm have a really engaging sound even for feet that rarely dip into hardcore waters. (Kevin McStravick)