Soft No did something a little unconventional on its forthcoming EP, Super Neutral. After releasing a well-received debut EP, the Philly, PA-based, genre-blurring indie quintet decided to approach its next batch of songs drastically differently than its first.
Collaborative writing sessions and a bold decision to place its foot on the BPM accelerator yielded a five-song collection that’s something of a sonic reinvention. Super Neutral, out on local Philly indie, Abandon Everything Records on May 29, is an emotive onslaught of serrated alt-rock guitars, punk rock aggression, post-hardcore jaggedness, hypnotic post-punk grooves, emo hookiness, and atmospheric synth soundscapes.
Soft No is Allison Lannutti, lead vocals and bass; Scott Signorino, rhythm guitar; Austin Lotz, lead guitar and co-lead vocals; Kate Lowe, keys, piano, and synthesizer; and Jonathan Martello, drums and percussion.
It has officially been two years since this exhilarating young band exploded out of the Philadelphia scene, but on their triumphant return single, “Oxford Street,” Soft No sounds completely rejuvenated. With the warmth of lo-fi creating palpable textures when mixed with the acrobatic vocals and subdued yet searing guitars, the song immerses the listener in the band’s new sense of creativity and the deeper levels of vulnerability the songwriting reaches. With her vocals positioned a bit back in the mix, Lannutti has never written this honestly. Based on a true story of an unforgettable night out and the morning after, “Oxford Street” contains a world of complexity despite its unassuming presence. Soft No has launched their latest era, and the vivid storytelling and infectious catharsis of their latest single is just the start of something monumental for the young, refreshing band.
