Prepare to embark on a thrilling auditory escapade with Guitarmy of One.
The enigmatic purveyor of NYC surf rock, unveils a clandestine gem titled ‘Top Secret Agent Man on a Wire Tapped Phone at Sea’.
This mesmerizing single offers a tantalizing glimpse into the upcoming album ‘The Wave Files’, a work of sonic art that pushes the boundaries of genre and imagination. With a dry sense of humor and a penchant for adventure, Guitarmy of One combines the thrilling tones of spy-themed instrumental surf guitar with a punk-infused vitality that is sure to captivate listeners.
Fronted by the intrepid guitarist Scott Helland, Guitarmy of One takes us on a whirlwind journey through realms of intrigue, danger, and surf-soaked excitement. Drawing inspiration from the iconic spy and detective shows of yesteryears, Helland concocts a sonic equivalent that exudes urgency and excitement, matching the riveting thrill of espionage-themed visuals. It’s a fusion of genres that ignites the imagination and fuels the senses.
Helland’s musical roots trace back to the vibrant 80s-90s hardcore punk scene, where he cut his teeth as a bassist in bands like Deep Wound, alongside luminaries J Mascis and Lou Barlow of Dinosaur Jr. Later, he ventured into East Coast hardcore and crossover thrash with outfits like Outpatients, School of Violence, and Darkside NYC. Transitioning into a solo career in the mid-90s, Helland released a series of eclectic instrumental albums, showcasing his musical versatility. In 2005, he joined forces with French singer Samantha Stephenson to form the captivating post-punk dark pop cabaret duo, Frenchy and the Punk.
Helland’s vision for ‘The Wave Files’ is to create a sonic experience that resonates with globetrotters, whether in their minds or physical journeys. It’s music that sparks the imagination and transports the listener across continents or, at the very least, counties. With the absence of lyrics, the music relies on its ability to craft vivid visuals, evoking an auditory adventure that leaves an indelible mark.
TRACK LIST
1. Top Secret Agent Man on a Wire Tapped Phone at Sea
2. Jack Lord of the Sea
3. Kolchak meets the Sea Mobster
4. Soylent Seafoam Green
5. The Sea and the Seventh Veil of Surveillance
6. Plight of the Searchlight
7. Sea Legs Diamond
8. Espionage a Trois on the Open Sea
9. Must be the Season of Treason
10. Seance for the Saint
Within the intricate compositions of Guitarmy of One, one can detect the influences of Spanish guitar, punk, and metal. Helland masterfully blends these elements to conjure images of secret agents, high-speed pursuits, and hidden agendas. His expert employment of surf guitar techniques, from reverb-drenched chords to lightning-fast tremolo picking and the seductive allure of tremolo bar vibrato, all enhanced by the Bigsby bridge pedal, creates a nostalgic yet forward-thinking sonic landscape.
Guitarmy of One presents a full-fledged espionage-inspired surf rock experience, transporting us into a realm where instrumental guitar, surf music, and the mystique of spy themes seamlessly merge. Helland’s enigmatic melodies, generously woven over propulsive spy riffs and electro beats, build suspense and intensity, culminating in captivating climaxes that leave us breathless.
Witnessing Guitarmy of One’s live performances is akin to stepping into a sonic laboratory. The stage becomes a canvas on which layers of guitar riffs, bass lines, and percussion intertwine and overlap, creating a lush and dynamic musical tapestry. Armed with his trusty guitar, loop pedals, drum pads, and an arsenal of effects, Helland orchestrates a symphony of sound right before your eyes, transporting you to a world where music reigns supreme.
‘Top Secret Agent Man on a Wire Tapped Phone at Sea’ is a prime example of Helland’s mastery. Inspired by Johnny Rivers’ 1966 hit ‘Secret Agent Man’, this track exudes a fresh and upbeat vibe, making it a fitting choice for the album’s lead single. With its reverberating guitar octaves, pulsating bass lines, and infectious drum beats, it encapsulates the excitement and essence of ‘The Wave Files’ theme, serving as an irresistible invitation into this thrilling sonic world.
LIVE SHOWS
JUNE 23-25 Harpursville, NY – New York Faerie Festival 2023
JULY 1 New York, NY – Parkside Lounge @8pm
JULY 4 Brooklyn, NY – Coney Island Brewer @1:30pm
SEPT 1-3 Atlanta, GA – DragonCon 2023
OCT 7 New York, NY – Unsteady Freddie’s Surf Rock Shindig
As of June 14, ‘Top Secret Agent Man on a Wire Tapped Phone at Sea’ is exclusively available on Bandcamp. The track will make its way to other digital platforms, including Spotify and Apple Music, on June 21. Mark your calendars for August 18, the day ‘The Wave Files’ album will be unleashed upon the world in both CD and digital formats. Brace yourself for an unforgettable sonic expedition that defies expectations and transports you to uncharted musical territories. Guitarmy of One is ready to sweep you away.