Chicago native Mike Downey was the guitarist and singer for twee associates Wolfie, but since moving to Stockholm, Sweden and taking his leave of that band some years ago, he’s been recording souped up power pop as Shy Mirrors. Taking his cue from early Superchunk and the greased back hair and leather jacket pop rock of the late 70’s, Downey streaks his songs with buried guitar solos, surging rhythms, and a DIY aesthetic that would make the most cynical 70’s punker proud. Having released a collection of songs for Big School Records back at the end of last year, Downey’s restless creativity seems to have gotten the better of him, and he’s back with Wrong Bomb—10 songs clocking in at less than 20 minutes–which is out now via Mirror Universe. As the lead single from Wrong Bomb, “Tramming Up” is all roaring rhythms, frantic acoustic strumming, and searing runs of electric guitar. Downey’s nasal voice provides the perfect guide for the loose instrumentation, and the whole song feels wonderfully ramshackle. You can hear the early indie rock influence as much as you do the Sex Pistols/Ramones sneering pop attitude.
Beats Per Minute is pleased to premiere the latest track from Shy Mirrors’ Wrong Bomb release.
