Shapeshifter is Knuckle Puck’s second full-length, and it follows up 2015’s Copacetic. Building on top of the passionate pop-punk of its debut, the Chicago-based band offers “tighter and more deliberate” songwriting, and the “introspective and urgent” lyrics are delivered over a melodic bed of buzzsaw guitar, buoyant keyboard textures, and fast-paced rhythms. Overall, Knuckle Puck’s ability to craft satisfying songs about lost love, mental illness, relationships, and etc. is undeniable, and Shapeshifter is a strong sophomore effort from the group that’s certainly figured out how to write a deeper, more mature record while retaining its day-one sound. Check out “Double Helix,” “Gone,” “Want Me Around,” and “Conduit.”

• limited edition purple vinyl pressing
• music label: Rise Records 2017

reviewed by nakaveli 10/2017

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