Harsh Reality by Stress Positions

Delivering politically charged post punk and powerviolence, Stress Positions has absolutely burst onto the scene with Harsh Reality. Almost immediately the Chicago-based group launches into speedy, rage-fueled diatribes focused on themes like poverty, police brutality, and religious shame alongside constantly changing rhythms and jagged guitar parts. Sections of screeching intensity are met with extremely brief moments of clarity the artist describes as a “gasping for air” sensation, a quick respite before launching into the next idea. Stress Positions feels wholly unsatisfied not only by the injustice and strife they name outright, but also by the feelings of monotony and hopelessness that come with accepting the status quo laid before them. They are absolutely fed up with the stagnation, perfectly encapsulating our deepest unsettlement with the world, Harsh Reality provides a moment to feel the weight of everything around you.

- Carrie