MUSIC FOR YOUR EARS | REVIEW Garffeeld By Shellschock Lullaby

Garffeeld by Shellshock Lullaby stands out as a compelling track that delves into the
nuances of a lost connection. This infectious emo pop punk track explores the poignant
nostalgia associated with someone you were once close to, who shares a quirky love for
Garfield memes. The song’s appeal lies in its catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and
dynamic instrumentation, reflecting the universal feeling of missing someone while
grappling with divergent interests. By blending elements from various alternative
genres, Shellshock Lullaby delivers a distinctive and relatable sound that resonates
across a broad spectrum of listeners. Garffeeld is a fresh addition to Spotify’s Release
Radar, offering a vibrant perspective on human connection within a dynamic musical
landscape.
Shellshock Lullaby comprises Russ Nelson, who takes on vocals, guitar, drums, and
bass, alongside AJ Puckett, who also plays guitar. Having previously played together in
the Levi Blom band, the duo brings a rich background of musical collaboration.
Influences from emo punk giants like Taking Back Sunday, Alkaline Trio, Bilmuri, and
Coheed and Cambria are evident in their sound. The band has shared stages with
notable acts such as Black Flag, .38 Special, and Tim Montana, and performed at
several Evel Knievel Days in Butte, Montana.
What adds a layer of intrigue to Shellshock Lullaby is their journey through multiple
band members since their inception in 2011, a disbandment in 2018, and a recent
resurgence with the release of Garffeeld. Their perseverance and evolution are palpable
in their latest work.
Their previous release, Without Serendipity, shows their ability to craft emotionally
charged music. With an arresting acoustic guitar tempo and Russ Nelson’s soulful
lyrics, the track draws comparisons to high-profile emo acts like Dashboard
Confessional. The mix of acoustic, pop punk, and alt-rock elements creates a
multifaceted sound appealing to fans of these genres.
Garffeeld distinguishes itself in the emo punk scene with its unique focus on Garfield
memes. This theme is cleverly woven into a love story, where the object of affection is
deeply obsessed with Garfield memes, creating a humorous yet relatable narrative. The
track’s structure is engaging, starting with electrifying energy from gritty guitars and
driving drums, transitioning into softer, introspective vocals, and then returning to its
pulsating core. The bridge takes a haunting turn, reflecting the confusion surrounding
the meme-centric relationship.
The song’s charm lies in its emotional core, balancing raw musical energy with a
humorous and relatable theme. Shellshock Lullaby conveys the frustration and
confusion of navigating the cultural landscape of internet memes, delivering a package
of emo punk brilliance. The track’s energy and melancholy merge seamlessly, driven by
Nelson’s powerful vocals, layered guitar riffs, and dynamic percussion.

Recorded at Butte Central High School, where Russ teaches music, Garffeeld draws
inspiration from the peculiar world of Garfield memes. This unconventional muse adds
depth and humour to the song, making it a standout track in their repertoire.
Shellshock Lullaby’s sound, reminiscent of mid-2000s alternative bands like The Friday
Night Boys and Forever The Sickest Kids, combines heart-wrenching vocals and
powerful melodies. Their barrage of riffs and leads complements Nelson’s voice, which
shines as an additional instrument in the rich tapestry of harmonies. Intelligent lyrics
further enhance the vocal appeal, making Garffeeld a track that is both entertaining and
emotionally resonant.
The record, characterised by lively pop punk elements, deviates from genre norms with
its unique thematic focus and technical instrumentation. The result is a convincing and
powerful release that demonstrates the band’s ability to fuse diverse musical influences
into attracting tracks.
Overall, Garffeeld by Shellshock Lullaby is a must-listen, bringing a fresh and dynamic
perspective to the emo pop punk scene. Its relatable themes, engaging structure, and
emotional depth make it a worthy addition to any playlist, promising to engage and
resonate with listeners. The song’s catchy and emotionally charged nature ensures that it
will leave a lasting impression, further solidifying Shellshock Lullaby’s place in the
music scene.