Melbourne’s INSTYNKT bursts onto the scene with”Lies, Lovers, Thieves,” a genre-defying sonic adventure that showcases their electrifying energy, and masterful songwriting.
A remarkably cohesive debut from INSTYNKT, Lies, Lovers, Thieves is densely coated and rife with textbook elements ofclassic rock. With electrifying energy, the outfit cement their sonic ambitions and realise the expanse of their abilities.
Whether it’s the duelling acoustic guitars and glittery string section of classic rock ballad Asleep At The Wheel, or the metal infused harmonics of Dying Day – ruefully reminiscent of early Linkin Park – INSTYNKT cover a whole lot of ground with an impressive amount of precision.
Ranging from heavy and charged to a meandering lamentation on love and loss, Lies, Lovers, Thieves encompasses a broadly satisfying spectrum of genre. With a pop sensibility, INSTYNKT traverse a scope that rings true of the grungier side of 90s Brit-Pop and the early 2000s metal fusion that took over radio stations for a decade.
While Girl On Kennedy and Dying Day are ruthless experimentations, Good Has Found Better takes a slower, more calculated approach. Something all INSTYNKT songs have in common is a hook-saturated chorus; fitting seamlessly into their artfully structured pieces, it seems as if INSTYNKT have perfected the method of songwriting.
A vocal blend of Liam Gallagher and Chester Bennington, constantly evolving guitar lines and immensely satisfying solos and a transfixing rhythm section; INSTYNKT display their aptitude with a sense of confidence and excitement.
Without arrogance, they present themselves as overtly capable, both in the creation of their project and their individual specialities. The fast paced sixteenth groove of Undertow with its Red Hot Chilli Peppers-like rap-singing and unabated heavy guitar lines feels fit for a festival stage, the energy insurmountable.
INSTYNKT wear their influences on their sleeves, though Lies, Lovers, Thieves does not feel anywhere close to a carbon copy. With sparkling production, there is never a moment that flies under the radar – every intricately designed interplay is given the spotlight and a dose of appreciation.
Straight out of Melbourne’s vibrant South East, the dynamic quartet INSTYNKT has been making waves since their formation in 2019, consisting of the charismatic Charlie Lane on lead vocals, the powerhouse twins Michael and Shilo Uberti on lead guitar and bass respectively, and the rhythm maestro Mac Nicholson on drums.
With an undeniable chemistry and a shared passion for their craft, this tightly-knit ensemble has been captivating audiences across the Melbourne music scene, leaving no stage unturned in their quest to solidify their presence and leave a lasting impression on anyone willing to lend an ear
Each track on Lies, Lovers, Thieves, is full of strength and potential; a new lens to view the group through and a new emotion to project onto a skilfully created sonic backdrop.
Listen to Lies, Lovers, Thieves below:
Review by Caitlin Norris
