White Lung – Paradise

Disney Punk

As a self identified punk band, White Lung’s music seemed to fall more suitably in alternative/indie category. It is hard to imagine violent mosh-pitting occurring as a result of their music, but the Vancouver natives brought a colorful mixture to the table. For example, the vocals of singer Mish Barber-Way are mesmerizing.  She creates a feeling of a dark yet fairytale-like place. If Alice in Wonderland had a punk band, White Lung would be it.

There is a strong sense of femininity that eludes from the band. This is not only because the band is made of mostly female identified band members, excluding Kenneth William, but because the music embodies a perfect balance of strength and movement. Strength and movement may not be the stereotypical/normative definition of femininity delivered to us by society, but they are characteristics fully embedded in femininity. These aspects are why White Lung presents a true depiction of femininity within their music.

As far as favorites go, “Hungry” and “Vegas” were the tracks that stood out the most. As a listener, it was easy to detect influences of electronic new wave mixed with sequences of hard guitar riffs, like the ones heard in “Vegas.” In addition, the vibrant rhythms of “Hungry” made it easy to dance and move with the melody remaining in correlation of a dream like state. The song itself was reminiscent of when Alice ( from the Disney version of Alice in Wonderland) takes a bite of a cookie and begins to grow tall, although how literal the title “Hungry” was supposed to be taken remains to be decided by the audience. White Lung is so dynamic that it is difficult to compare their music to any other specific entertainer. The band possesses a unique sound with a mood of deep fantasy. They are definitely a band worth exploring.