Chicago’s very own rock stalwarts, Canning, have officially returned to the fold, and they aren’t doing things by halves. Their latest offering, ‘State of Mind’, is a masterclass in controlled chaos, blending the grit of the nineties with the flamboyant swagger of seventies glam. It arrives as the band’s first significant statement of 2024, following a prolific run of singles like ‘Collide’ and ‘Shortline’, but this feels like a distinct level-up.
The trio—comprising Ricky Canning on vocals and guitar, Fritz Armstrong on bass, and Tom Miller on drums—displays a level of telepathic chemistry that only comes from years of shared stages and studio floor sweat.
The track is an intricate tapestry of sound that refuses to sit still. From the moment the electric guitar bite pierces the air, you are pulled into a sprawling arrangement where every instrument carries equal weight. It is refreshing to hear a band that prioritises the ‘groove’ just as much as the ‘hook’; the basslines are thick and melodic, while the drumming provides a blustering, busy foundation that keeps the momentum surging forward. According to the band, their primary creative spark is to “play a song with the energies of the day which keep dynamically flowing into the next.” This philosophy is palpable here; the track feels alive, shifting from anthemic choruses to technical, soaring solos with a brash, restless energy.
Lyrically and atmospherically, ‘State of Mind’ acts as a vessel for introspection. Ricky Canning notes that the track was birthed during a period defined by “new energies, surroundings, and people,” resulting in a “rambunctious spontaneity” that drives the song’s adventurous spirit. It is a track designed for soul-searching, set against a backdrop of vintage rock textures and a hint of classic electronica. The band excels at carving out these specific moments in time, inviting the listener into a narrative of peace and heightened awareness.
Ultimately, Canning proves that they are far too versatile for easy categorisation. They inhabit the space between alternative rock, prog, and raw roll-and-roll grind, constantly reshaping their identity. ‘State of Mind’ isn't just a song; it’s a high-octane journey that captures the fleeting nature of inspiration. It’s loud, it’s proud, and it’s a reminder that Chicago remains a powerhouse for authentic, guitar-driven music.
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