After a notable hiatus since their 2021 release, “Get Thee To A Nunnery,” The Garrys are back, this time as a quartet, with their newest single, “Cakewalk.” The addition of brother Matthew Maier on guitar not only augments their lineup but enriches their sound, weaving a complex tapestry of harmonies and guitar riffs that hold true to the band’s unique “doom-wop” essence.
“Cakewalk” is more than just a musical piece; it is an auditory journey back in time, laced with the warmth of a VHS tape’s analogue hum. The track masterfully blends the syncopated beats of surf rock with the shadowy depths of tremolo-infused guitars, creating a soundscape that feels both familiar and intriguingly foreign. It’s as if David Lynch directed a school dance, blending eerie nostalgia with a sense of dark whimsy.
Lyrically, “Cakewalk” treads into introspective territories, exploring themes of ignored wisdom, existential angst, and the stoic acceptance of life’s indifference. It’s a significant thematic deepening for the band, suggesting a matured perspective since their last outing. This lyrical depth, combined with the collective songwriting effort, marks a pivotal growth in The Garrys’ artistic journey.
The accompanying music video, directed by Carey Shaw, mirrors the song’s thematic and stylistic elements perfectly. Shaw’s choice to utilize aesthetics inspired by vintage footage of the 1988 Miss Saskatoon beauty pageant adds layers of soft-focus romance mixed with an almost surreal quality, akin to a local TV channel’s variety show from the mid-80s. It’s an effective visual representation of the song’s underlying themes and stylistic callbacks.
With “Cakewalk,” The Garrys not only remind us of their capability to craft hauntingly beautiful music but also their skill in creating multi-layered artistic expressions that resonate on multiple sensory levels. As they embark on their UK tour, including performances at FOCUS Wales, fans old and new can anticipate a compelling showcase of their evolution and a deep dive into the melancholic pools of their sonic and lyrical landscapes. This track is a bold, introspective, and utterly captivating return for the Canadian quartet.
We will share “Cakewalk” with you soon but for now check out “Ambrosia Salad” below: