In honor of spring break coming up, what better song to listen to than Harrison Gordon’s new release “Spring Break!”? Harrison Gordon and his self-titled band just came out with their latest EP this past Friday. Also titled “Spring Break!”, the EP consists of six songs, all adhering to a grungy, punk rock standard. It also holds a certain vibe that can be associated with 75° weather and long drives with the windows down. The EP is incredibly low-key, with nothing too serious about it. This fits the theme well, considering it’s all about the rejuvenated nature of being on break.
However, the track “Spring Break!” stands out from the others. It truly captures that carefree and lively energy you find in the warmer seasons. The song starts off with a punch, utilizing a catchy guitar riff that has an edgy, almost distorted sound. Once the rest of the band kicks in, heavy drums create a punchy groove that blends with the guitar and bass flawlessly. It creates one cohesive sound rather than leaving anything out of the mixture.
The lyrics guide you to open your eyes to the radiant casualness of this particular time. Beginning in the first verse with “Memorize when the liquor store opens / I’ll meet you out whenever my shift ends,” showing off the careless, relaxed aspects of spring break. Following this is the first chorus saying “Well, I smell like Pine-Sol / I try to sweat out the gin / 9:30 wake up / Oh, I’ll be clocked by 10.” This portrays a message to listeners of a stereotypical identification regarding your average break experience; working your part-time job and then going to party right after.
Further on, towards the end of the song in the bridge, the lyrics “Oh, I can’t wait ’til I get home tonight / I pissed off all my friends / And lost my keys / So I’ll just pound on the kitchen door ’til you let me in” play. What seems like a line about poor decision making just shows the truth about spring break for young people everywhere – it’s about exploring youthful irresponsibility. You’re taking time to relax, to be dumb and have fun. This is what this tune celebrates on top of unrefined, sensational instrumentals.
Sound effects also add to the feel of it, like cracking open cans and smashing bottles. These add a certain unique touch to the song you don’t hear in a lot of modern-day punk or alternative music. It’s a quick song that you listen to simply for the vibe of it. It makes you want to move and spend time in the sun. If you’re looking for a song to define your break, this is the one. It’s 1 minute and 58 seconds of pure spring break, easy, breezy vibes.
