‘Chronic’ is the debut single from Newcastle alt-rockers Swine Tax. On the surface, the track appears to be a laid back listen – influenced by the likes of The National, Modest Mouse & Pavement – but ‘Chronic’ is a deeply personal song about dealing with feelings of inadequacy in an intimate relationship, whilst living with a long-term chronic pain condition.
This pain is made audible by frontman Vince Lisle, who sings in a strained but satisfying voice: “I can’t quite believe this pain is part of me”. ‘Chronic’ feels like an ode to personal endurance, with it’s anthemic guitar and mixture of quiet verses and loud choruses. Whilst most people can relate to the emotional anguish caused by the breakdown of a relationship, few will understand what it’s like to live with chronic pain – but Swine Tax have managed to write a genuinely interesting and uplifting song about it.
The band will be supporting Party Hardly and Gigslutz favourites The Orielles on their Newcastle tour dates later this year, so make sure you head down to one of their shows if you can. Listen to ‘Chronic’ below, and follow Swine Tax on Facebook for more updates.
Kate Crudgington
@KCBobCut
Kate Crudgington
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