A new project from Adelaide-based musician Troy Rapscallion Benson, The Yellow Wallpaper are a grunge-rock act focused on exploring themes of frustration, confusion, sadness and joy.
The group's debut single is the moodily ferocious 'Tell Me To Beg', a song that explores the demise of a romantic partnership whilst holding on to a vague hope of reconciliation.Elegantly brutish spoken word intros the track backed by a bruised guitar chord that plucks with a simmering anger that makes way for a deluge of intense, searing rock music that harbours a spaciously psych-flecked, noodling guitar lick.
It's a dark, menacing ride through a range of emotions lyrically spotlighting the intrinsic fear associated with uncertainty, loneliness and the demise of a troubled relationship.
The brooding intensity builds throughout finally climaxing in a chaotic wall of wildly fierce, ravenous grunge art-rock.
"I wrote 'Tell Me To Beg' on acoustic guitar," begins Troy, "while experiencing challenges in a long-term relationship.
"At the time, we were trying to repair what was broken, but uncertain whether that was possible. This instability and confusion bred the vulnerability and pain that you can hear screaming from the lyrics and music.
"I formed The Yellow Wallpaper and we developed it further. The song evolved with the band and was truly brought to fruition."
Released last week, today scenestr is amped to premiere the song's music video. Enjoy.
"Created by Kristoffer Lucia from Gutter-Pop Pictures, the film clip explores an isolated and unstable mind, stripped bare, plagued and overcome by conflicting personalities," adds Troy.
"Darkness, seduction, anger and hope grip the protagonist, sapping his energy until he is left expressionless, exhausted and numb.
"I wanted to visually embody each sentiment in the portrayal of the various characters. I invaded their mind, feeling every movement and expression.
"Kristoffer's direction and expertise helped me bring the characters to life and this resulted in a sprawling display of raw emotion that begs to be watched, re-watched and genuinely experienced."
The Yellow Wallpaper will launch 'Tell Me To Beg' this weekend (17 June) with a home-town show at The Grace Emily supported by Mums Favourite and Major Shade.
"This was my first time recording as a lead vocalist," continues Troy. "I'd previously worked with Joseph Cheek from Island Studios, as a drummer in a different band, so already had a professional relationship with him.
"This connection helped in my new role and the experience wasn't daunting at all.
"Joseph gave us freedom to experiment with different sounds, which lead to some inspired and creative work from our guitarists Joel Cooke and Kristoffer Lucia.
"This comforting environment extended to our bassist Genevieve Brandenburg and our drummer Heath Trebilcock. They both did an amazing job bringing energy and intensity to 'Tell Me To Beg'. Island Studios feels like home."
