The Zebecks - ‘Killing Time’ | Single Review
September 13 | Written By Emily Whitchurch
“Killing Time" is the latest single from The Zebecks, combining pensive lyrics with energetic vocals and punky instrumentals. Hailing from northern Scotland, the band are now building a name for themselves as part of Glasgow’s thriving underground music scene. With gigs at King Tut’s, Saint Luke’s and Stereo already under their belt, The Zebecks are taking Glasgow by storm, and “Killing Time" is an incredible addition to their setlist.
Drawing inspiration from Glasgow’s nightlife culture, “Killing Time" offers raw social commentary reminiscent of The Clash and The Libertines. The Zebecks are confident from the offset - listeners are thrown straight into Glasgow’s lively Argyle Street, enriched by vivid imagery of a gritty, substance-fuelled night out.
The chorus is simple but catchy - lyrics comparing a controlling relationship to a “wind-up toy” are juxtaposed by a jaunty, reggae-inspired beat, adding depth to the track. The threefold repetition of the chorus at the end of the track strengthens this idea of cyclicality, perhaps hinting at the inescapable nature of such a relationship.
Self-proclaimed punk poets, The Zebecks effortlessly blend indie rock, grunge and punk influences in a way that still feels fresh through their close ties to small-town Scotland. Choppy, fast-spoken lyrics bring Jamie T’s influence into the Glasgow scene, punctuated with laughs and shouts to give a homegrown yet professional feel to the track. Layering indie, punk and reggae sounds with ease, guitarist Hayden Peace, bassist Max Robertson, drummer Aiden Smith and guitarist/lead vocalist Dan O’Shanter clearly know how to craft multidimensional music.
Fiercely ambitious, The Zebecks have their sights set on Glasgow’s famed Barrowlands and SWG3 venues as they continue to grow. With the band committed to the pure mania of live music, “Killing Time" will certainly make for a brilliant live performance!