The Hunters Have Entered

Welcome back to Finetuned on this fine Wednesday! Holy shit, homies, we have a banger this week. This week we are talking about a band that knows no genre (kinda), Enter Shikari is up to bat. Let’s dive deep, lads!

Who Are Enter Shikari?

Enter Shikari is a British band that formed back in 2003 in Hertfordshire. They are known for their innovative and genre-defying music, blending elements of post-hardcore, electronicore (yes this is actually a thing), alternative rock, drum n’ bass, and even pop influences. Their music often features heavy use of synthesizers, programming, and energetic live performances. They seriously deliver SO hard in their performances, so much so I’ll link one of their live performances below.

Band Members

Okay, as you all know I usually chat about the band’s make up and who makes the tunes. With that said, one of the most awesome things about Enter Shikari is the fact that the band has literally NEVER changed members since their formation back in 2003 ish. With that said, the band consists of:

• Rou Reynolds (lead vocals, keyboards, electronics, and occasionally guitar)

• Chris Batten (bass guitar, backing vocals)

• Rob Rolfe (drums, percussion, backing vocals)

• Rory Clewlow (lead guitar, backing vocals)

Legacy and Influence

Enter Shikari is recognized for their independent ethos, having self-released most of their music under their own label, Ambush Reality. They’ve gained a dedicated fanbase and critical acclaim for pushing the boundaries of modern music.

What To Expect Sonically

Enter Shikari’s music is distinctive and recognized for its seamless blending of intense, aggressive rock elements with experimental electronic influences. Their lyrics often carry political and social commentary, covering topics like climate change, inequality, and mental health. Their listens deliver a positive punch but also a real genuine sound that makes their various messages hit home that much more. Some of their major albums include:

1. Take to the Skies (2007) - Their debut, which brought them mainstream attention.

2. Common Dreads (2009) - Focused on political and social themes.

3. A Flash Flood of Colour (2012) - Praised for its energy and lyricism.

4. The Spark (2017) - A more melodic and introspective album.

5. Nothing is True & Everything is Possible (2020) - Showcased their versatility.

You can expect a metric shit ton of synthesizers! Combine this with the incredible vocal range from Rou. They really take their music to directions that you can’t define or hold to a specific sound - which makes their songs on first listen super unpredictable. That said, their songs are still very much so accessible!

Traversing The Live Stage

As I mentioned above, they have an incredible live presence. Tap the image below and watch this INCREDIBLE show! You’re welcome, Finetuners. (epilepsy warning, lots of flashing lights and bright colors).

More On The Album Rec

This record is so fun. It is genuinely so positive sonically and the vocals are so all over the place in the best way. I get vibes of Jack Antonoff (Bleachers and others), Matt Bellamy from Muse, and even Sean Scanlon from Smallpools. Their dynamics, both in volume and in the sounds they achieve, cannot be overstated! Check this one out, friends, seriously! Take that leap into their tunes, you won’t regret it one bit.

Thanks for reading here, Finetuners! I do hope you all have enjoyed this week’s Finetuned. I’d appreciate any insights, admiration, or otherwise. You can reply to the newsletter directly or DM me on Twitter. (or email me here: [email protected])

Please do share Finetuned with your friends & fam & whoever else! I believe great music should be shared, cherished, and understood from all sorts of perspectives.

See you all in the next one! 🙌