The Clydes - Everything's Not Dark [EP]
“a mainstay on the New Brunswick music scene.” — WRAT 95.9
“They write polished tracks that, while tipping their hats towards the group’s classic rock influences, don’t feel dated. That’s not an easy skill to hone.” — Bobby Olivier, NJ.com
“This of course is infused with that Jersey element that only bands from the east coast seem to be able to harness. The new track is a stand out in the bands already impressive catalog.” – RebelNoise.com
“Their ability to blend genres like new wave and alternative rock while keeping their sound fresh is impressive, and Sleeping On The Side Of Your Head is proof of that.” – BloodMakesNoise.Net
The Clydes, a veteran alt-pop-rock band from New Jersey, continue their precision-driven sound on their latest EP, Everything’s Not Dark. Released through indie label Mint 400 Records, the three-song collection features some of the band’s most refined work in their 15-year history. Anchored by brothers Brent and Brian Johnson and bassist Andrew Orlando, The Clydes blend cinematic guitar flourishes and synth-driven intensity across the tracks, which were recorded at Retromedia Sound Studios in Red Bank with producer Adam Vaccarelli. From the darkly anthemic “Sleeping On The Side Of Your Head” to the anxious pulse of “This Is The Night Shift,” the EP forms a cohesive narrative of perseverance. As Brent Johnson puts it, “Even if it seems the opposite sometimes, not everything is dark. There’s always at least a little light.”
The new song “Soak On” showcases the band’s balance of sonic power and emotional nuance. Guitarist Brian Johnson recalls writing it on his Gibson Hummingbird: “It always sounded like it could stand on its own with only an acoustic… The result is a sonic sound that is hard to create without those dynamics.” Vocalist Brent Johnson built on that foundation, saying, “The music Brian gave me sounded like hope floating. So I wrote about trying to soak in all the pressure life heaves at you and moving on instead of letting it drag you down.” Finished with bassist Orlando and longtime drummer Zakk Ekomomidis, “Soak On” joins the other two tracks as part of a steady build toward the band’s upcoming full-length album.