Let’s not beat around the bush here. Because, hell man, the Powder Room certainly aren’t. The Athens trio’s new single, their first for their upcoming sophomore LP, Lucky, is every bit the ferocious noise rock jackhammer we hoped it would be. It’s even got that menacing stop-start lurch, you know the kind that makes you brace your shoulders and clench your fists in anticipation. Some shit is about to go down, and it’s probably going to be bad.

Much like their Atlanta peers and compatriots Whores., the Powder Room have a gift for crafting ugly, distended songs that are more accessible and tuneful than they have any right to be. But it’s all a trick. As “That’s No Way to Live” uncoils, you can recognize the monster revealing itself — the mounting tension and unease, followed by that old kick-in-the-teeth release — but you’re far too busy trying to unravel Gene Woolfolk’s melodies from all the underlying tentacles and atmospheric coils to dodge the blow that’s clearly coming. When it finally arrives, it’s a relief. Catharsis — emotional, spiritual, and visceral — has always been one of noise rock’s primary attractions, and there’s plenty of it here. Even if it does come with a fair amount of bruises and a toothless smile.

Listen below.

Lucky is out September 16 via Learning Curve Records. Pre-orders are available here.

The Powder Room will celebrate the release of Lucky on Friday, August 26 at Caledonia Lounge. Supporting them will be Multicult and Vincas. Doors open at 9 p.m. Admission is $7-9.

More Info
Bandcamp: thepowderroom.bandcamp.com
Facebook: @thepowderroomathens
SoundCloud: @thepowderroomga
Twitter: @thepowderroomga