Brand new record from Verticoli

For over a decade, the alternative rock sound of trio Verticoli has shaken around the world from their Tasmanian home. Formed by vocalist and guitarist Sam Hunn, drummer Will Colvin and bassist Jeremy Hughes, the band balances heaviness with melody, crafting songs that pack a punch while carrying a magnetic emotional pull. Heavy riffs crash while hook-driven songwriting shines in their compelling artistic output, all brought to life by their sonic chemistry and high-octane live performances.

Since forming, Verticoli has always sought to forge music that’s equally impactful and accessible; a mission that’s seen them become a staple in Australia’s live scene, playing stages alongside acts like Cog, Kingswood, British India and DZ Deathrays. Their energy has translated to the country’s biggest festivals too, including an opening slot on the Field Stage at the Falls Festival in Marion Bay and a performance at Party in the Paddock after being handpicked by Triple J Unearthed back in 2017, moments that confirm the trio’s reputation as one of the most exciting rock bands to rise from Tasmania.

Since their self-titled debut EP in 2013, Verticoli have been rolling out an expansive body of work, developing their sound while retaining their distinct musical imprint throughout. Over the years, they’ve continued to grow, building their sonic range while winning over fans everywhere from both the studio and the stage. Now, with the arrival of their brand-new third album titled Silverlinings, the band distil that decade-long journey into a twelve-track outing of gripping rock music.

Kicked off with “A Kick in the Teeth,” the album starts with the crash of of crunching guitar chords, punching drums and twanging leads before shifting into a brighter, indie vibe as Sam’s expressive vocals enter to spin catchy melodic leads above. Gliding with slick rhythmic switch ups and wrapped in a driving alternative aesthetic, it’s the perfect showcase of their ability to bring together energising rock music with memorable songwriting.

Lead single “Milk & Honey” brings gritty rock swagger with a grooving riff that sets up an infectiously rhythmic jam that glides with powerful vocal performance and lively instrumentation and stellar lead guitar work. The track takes its title from imagery of idyllic abundance, a paradise that on closer inspection, conceals disillusionment beneath its surface. Verticoli use this contrast to explore the disparity between outward beauty and underlying darkness, turning the song into a layered reflection on the world’s contradictions.

“Trash King” rolls with bluesy guitar licks before the shuffle of drums injects a waltzing rhythm as Sam’s overlapping vocal layers dash the track with emphatic melodic lines throughout while invoking the enthralling stylings of classic frontmen like Chris Cornell. Other highlights on the record come with songs like “The Seam” which steadily builds towards a charging flurry of chugging guitar riffs and pounding drums to serve up an epic hard rock anthem.

With “Make it Your Own,” the band keeps the energy up with rumbling bass lines and flashes of biting guitar as Sam’s theatrical vocals dance above, resulting in an exhilarating sound packed full of moody vibes and pure rock n’ roll spirit. “Another One” jumps with stabby guitar lines and rattling percussion led by aggressive vocal performance, capturing Verticoli at their most fierce.

Closing the album with “Summer,” the smokey buzz of guitar notes drift in and out of focus before the strike of drums bring a steady forward motion. With smooth vocal lines draped over an arrangement that shifts between potent rock vigour and delicate indie style, it’s a superb finale that closes the LP on a charming and blissfully melodic note. With Silverlinings, Verticoli once again justify their place as one of Australia’s most compelling modern rock outfits and for fans of alternative rock that hits with both emotion and impact, Verticoli are most certainly a band to follow.

Listen to Silverlinings below