Rock/Review Shining Nothing - Heavy

Shining Nothing are witty garage rock crooners from Milwaukee and Chicago, where they melt melody and Taoism with the philosophy of Alan Watts into joyful yet streetwise indie punk. The band members met playing at basement house shows in the Chicago suburbs. The DIY ethic and the strong community in the Chicago area took them from underground house shows into venues like Beat Kitchen, The Abbey, and Cobra Lounge.

Chicago's clever garage rock crooners Shining Nothing, with their new single "Heavy," present a novel approach to rock music. This upbeat song skillfully combines catchy melodies with a contemporary Taoist interpretation that is evocative of philosopher Alan Watts' teachings.

Fundamentally, "Heavy" captures the essence of the group's distinct musical style, in which they deftly handle themes of positivism and emptiness while maintaining a lighthearted edge. Shining Nothing welcomes the idea of nothingness as a freeing force, similar to surfing on an inflating mattress, as opposed to focusing on existential dread. This unorthodox viewpoint gives the song a whimsical, carefree quality that distinguishes it from other rock anthems.

"Heavy" is a delicious mix of garage rock charm and contagious intensity on the musical front. The group's talent for writing disassembled, trashy songs comes through, conjuring up the gritty, unpolished sound of vintage American indie rock. Every component of the song, from the upbeat guitar riffs to the intense rhythm section, adds to its contagious groove and encourages listeners to nod in time.

Shining Nothing's ability to add philosophical depth to their music without compromising its basic accessibility and enjoyment is what makes them unique. Even though the song touch on existential issues, they are presented with a lightheartedness and irreverence that keeps the atmosphere lively.

Shining Nothing demonstrates their mastery of their art with "Heavy," a song that brilliantly combines garage rock sensibilities and Taoist wisdom to produce a sound that is simultaneously thought-provoking and incredibly appealing. "Heavy" is a terrific contribution to the current rock environment since it has plenty to offer everyone, regardless of preference for catchy songs or thoughtful lyrics.