Music Review: Demo – Cherry Red

(Self-released / Bandcamp)

Seattle’s Cherry Red get straight to the point on this five track EP, which is such a perfectly formed little record that I refuse to believe it is a demo in the traditional sense. Lookin’ For Love is less an opener, more a manifesto, with its raucous guitars and punk energy powered by an enormous pop heart. Hold On My Heart not only evokes legendary Portland band The Exploding Hearts — it even excites me in the same way Guitar Romantic did all those years ago. No Worth — the EP’s longest track at 2:44 — maintains the exceptionally high level and closes Demo with a flurry of sinewy guitars and one final chorus. I rarely get this excited about new bands these days; there’s something truly special about Cherry Red and I can’t wait to see what’s next.

Check out this wonderful release and support Cherry Red on Bandcamp.

10 February, 2024 – 11:23 — David Coleman