The Psychedelic Pop Revival: Perennial’s ‘Ready! Steady! Go!’ and the Art of Musical Fusion
There’s something undeniably magnetic about a band that can transport you to another era while still feeling utterly fresh. Perennial, the New England trio, has mastered this art with their latest single, ‘Ready! Steady! Go!’—a track that feels like a time capsule from the mid-60s Motown scene, yet pulses with a modern energy that’s impossible to ignore. Personally, I think this is where Perennial shines brightest: in their ability to blend nostalgia with innovation, creating something that’s both familiar and groundbreaking.
What makes this particularly fascinating is how the band manages to straddle genres without feeling disjointed. Chad Jewitt describes the track as ‘probably both our most POP song and our most psychedelic too,’ and that duality is what hooks you. The vibraphones, electric organ, and fuzz bass groove evoke the soulful, danceable rhythms of Motown, while the backwards guitar solo and wah-wah pedals add a trippy, experimental edge. It’s a fusion that shouldn’t work on paper, but in practice, it’s pure magic.
The Motown Influence: More Than Just a Sound
One thing that immediately stands out is Perennial’s nod to Motown—a genre that defined an era with its infectious grooves and emotional depth. But what many people don’t realize is that Motown was more than just a sound; it was a cultural movement. It was about breaking barriers, bringing people together, and creating music that transcended race and class. Perennial’s homage to this era isn’t just a stylistic choice—it’s a statement. In a world that often feels divided, their music serves as a reminder of the unifying power of art.
From my perspective, this is where ‘Ready! Steady! Go!’ truly excels. It’s not just a song; it’s an invitation to connect, to move, to feel. The Motown influence isn’t just a sonic reference—it’s a call to embrace the spirit of an era that believed in the transformative power of music.
Psychedelia in the Modern Age: A Bold Experiment
The psychedelic elements of the track are equally intriguing. In an age dominated by polished, radio-friendly pop, Perennial’s willingness to experiment with backwards solos and wah-wah pedals is refreshingly bold. What this really suggests is that the band isn’t afraid to take risks, to push boundaries, and to challenge listeners’ expectations.
If you take a step back and think about it, psychedelia has always been about exploration—both musical and existential. Perennial’s use of these elements isn’t just a nod to the past; it’s a reflection of our current moment. In a world that often feels chaotic and uncertain, their music offers a sense of escapism, a chance to lose yourself in the groove and find something new in the process.
The Broader Trend: Retro Revival in Modern Music
Perennial’s work is part of a larger trend in music: the retro revival. From indie bands channeling 70s disco to pop artists sampling 80s synthwave, there’s a clear yearning for the sounds of the past. But what’s interesting is how artists like Perennial are reimagining these influences rather than simply replicating them.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how this revival isn’t just about nostalgia—it’s about reinterpretation. Perennial isn’t trying to recreate Motown or psychedelia; they’re using these genres as a foundation to build something entirely their own. This raises a deeper question: Why are we so drawn to the past in the first place? Is it a desire for simplicity? A longing for a time when music felt more authentic? Or is it simply a reflection of our collective need for comfort in an increasingly complex world?
Looking Ahead: The Future of Perennial and Beyond
With Modernism set to release on September 18th via Ernest Jenning Record Co., it’s clear that Perennial is just getting started. Their ability to blend genres, experiment with sound, and infuse their music with meaning positions them as a band to watch. But what’s most exciting is the potential for their work to inspire others.
In my opinion, Perennial is not just making music—they’re sparking a conversation. They’re challenging us to think about what music can be, how it can connect us, and why it matters. ‘Ready! Steady! Go!’ is more than a single; it’s a manifesto, a call to embrace the past while boldly stepping into the future.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Fusion
As I reflect on Perennial’s latest offering, one thing is clear: fusion is the future. Whether it’s blending Motown with psychedelia or pop with experimentation, the ability to combine disparate elements into something cohesive is what makes music timeless. Perennial has tapped into this truth, and the result is a track that’s as danceable as it is thought-provoking.
So, here’s my takeaway: ‘Ready! Steady! Go!’ isn’t just a song—it’s an experience. It’s a reminder that music has the power to transport, to unite, and to inspire. And in a world that often feels fragmented, that’s something worth celebrating. So, turn up the volume, feel the groove, and let Perennial take you on a journey you won’t forget.
