MUSIC FOR YOUR EARS REVIEW of Pretty/Scary By Friday In California

Pretty/Scary by Friday In California is a high-octane debut that firmly establishes the
band as a formidable new presence in the hard rock scene. Friday In California, a hard
rock trio forged in the Northeast, was founded by Shaking Duke (David Thompson) and
Chris O’Sullivan in 2019, with Ben Easson finalising the line-up in 2020. After four
years of honing their craft, the band has taken to the studio to record their debut EP, The
Red Room, beginning with their debut single Pretty/Scary.
Drawing on the raw energy of classic rock influences like Guns N’ Roses, Led
Zeppelin, and AC/DC, the track is a sonic powerhouse that embodies the spirit of rock
and roll with both intensity and finesse. From the very first note, Pretty/Scary seizes the
listener’s attention and doesn’t let go, delivering a potent mix of gritty guitar riffs,
powerful drumming, and commanding vocals that leave a lasting impression.
The song kicks off with a ferocious guitar line that immediately sets the tone for what’s
to come. Chris O’Sullivan’s guitar work is nothing short of electrifying, fusing the
rawness of vintage rock with a modern edge. The line is catchy yet complex, weaving
through the track with a sense of urgency that propels the song forward. This energetic
opening sets the stage for the rest of the track, ensuring that the listener is hooked right
from the start. O’Sullivan’s guitar playing is technically proficient but never loses its
emotional punch, striking a balance between precision and passion.
Vocally, Pretty/Scary is anchored by the commanding performance of David
Thompson, also known by his stage name, Shaking Duke. His voice is the perfect
complement to the heavy instrumentation, delivering the lyrics with a raspy, raw edge
that adds depth and character to the track. Thompson’s vocal delivery is both aggressive
and melodic, conveying the song’s dual nature as something both beautiful and intense
— hence the title Pretty/Scary. The chorus, in particular, is where Thompson shines,
delivering lines with a rousing quality that begs to be shouted along to at live shows. It’s
easy to see how this track could become a crowd favourite, with its infectious energy
and memorable hooks.
The rhythm section, comprised of Ben Easson on drums, is the backbone of the track,
driving it forward with relentless momentum. Easson’s drumming is both intense and
precise, providing a solid foundation for the guitar and vocals to build upon. His work
on the track shows his ability to maintain a high energy level while still allowing space
for the other elements to breathe. The drums pulse with vitality, adding to the overall
sense of urgency that permeates the song. The rhythm is tight, with the bass line
effortlessly locking in with the drums to create a groove that is as appealing as it is
forceful.
Lyrically, Pretty/Scary explores themes of duality and the juxtaposition of beauty and
fear, reflecting on the complexities of human emotions and relationships. The lyrics are
thought-provoking without being overly abstract, allowing listeners to find their own
meaning within the song. There’s a sense of tension in the lyrics that mirrors the

musical composition, with moments of calm juxtaposed against bursts of raw energy.
This dynamic interplay between the lyrical content and the music itself is one of the
track’s strongest features, giving it a depth that rewards repeated listens.
The production of Pretty/Scary is top-notch, with each instrument and vocal line given
space to shine while still contributing to the overall cohesiveness of the track. The mix
is crisp and clear, allowing the power of the band’s performance to come through
without being muddied or overproduced. This is a track that feels alive, with a sense of
immediacy that makes it feel like it could have been recorded in a single, adrenaline-
fueled take. The production harnesses the raw energy of the band while still maintaining
a polished sound that is ready for radio play.
What truly sets Pretty/Scary apart is its ability to merge the familiar with the new.
While the influences of classic rock giants are clear, Friday In California brings their
own modern twist to the genre, creating a sound that feels both nostalgic and fresh. This
balance is not easy to achieve, but the band pulls it off with style and confidence.
Pretty/Scary is not just a throwback to the glory days of rock; it’s a bold statement that
hard rock is alive and well in the hands of this talented trio.
All in all, Pretty/Scary is an impressive debut that highlights Friday In California’s
strengths as musicians and songwriters. It’s a track that demands attention, with its
infectious energy, standout hooks, and compelling lyrics. Whether you’re a fan of
classic rock or new to the genre, Pretty/Scary is essential listening, offering a fresh take
on hard rock that is both exhilarating and satisfying. This is a band to watch, and if
Pretty/Scary is any indication of what’s to come, the future of Friday In California looks
incredibly bright.