EG Vines has proven himself particularly adept at pairing sharp hooks with emotional candor. His latest single, however, funnels that formula into something considerably more confrontational.
Arriving ahead of his forthcoming album, Kaleidoscope Dream (Birdtooth), “I Like ’Em Braindead” is an unwavering punk-rock anthem propelled by a characteristically precise and intense performance by late Manchester Orchestra drummer Tim Very. The track accentuates the emotionally charged songwriting style that’s defined Vines since his well-received 2019 debut, Family Business, as it takes aim at politicians, manipulative religious leaders and anyone else profiting from anti-intellectualism and blind obedience.
“Growing up, you’re expected to do as you’re told,” says Vines. “When you push too hard on social-group norms, you get your hand smacked and are told to stop questioning. But when you stop questioning altogether, bad actors step in. Powerful people who take advantage of well-intended people are at the top of my shit list. This song is about those people.”
We’re proud to premiere EG Vines’ “I Like ’Em Brain Dead.”Kaleidoscope Dream is out June 12.
—Hobart Rowland
See EG Vines live.
