“Sharpen,” off of Gabriel Mintz’s DXT77F (now on vinyl from Union Zero), is a masterful example of production and songwriting. Marching along with a metallic beat on the two and four, “Sharpen” envelops the listener in a warm blanket or echo and delay, all the while oozing complicated melody and harmony into your ear holes.
Time and rhythm are key and Mintz implores us to be patient, leaving us without the dynamic sweeps and epic moments that we crave in our run-of-the-mill pop music. The watery guitar shimmers, a tambo slaps back in response to the thumping bass. This track is ear candy and it’s a slow burner. A song meant to be enjoyed end to end and responsibly (and for sure with headphones).
Ball of Wax is excited to debut a video to accompany this song compiled and edited by Doug Arney and Gabriel Mintz. The video contains images and footage of a purported “violent attack” on members of The Committee on Un-American Activities at San Francisco City Hall on May 13th, 1960. UC Berkley students, San Fran residents, and members of the local communist party met at city hall to peacefully protest hearings only to find themselves barred from attending, the seats being suspiciously reserved. Their picket lines were met by firehoses manned by San Francisco Police. A propaganda film titled Operation Abolition was released by the Committee on Un-American Activities later that year in support of The Red Scare and was distributed nationwide to be shown in classrooms. Fake news. Fake AF.
Gabe sings “we the people feel right at home with blood on our hands and broken bones,” and I must say that its hard to argue that sentiment watching the news lately. 1960 happened nearly an entire lifetime ago but we are still marching and protesting to obtain even the most basic rights for facets of our population. This song and video reminds us to turn our music up, stay awake, and make sure you know who and what you are voting for . . .
Gabe and friends will play a set to close out our Ball of Wax 52 release show this Friday at Conor Byrne. They might even sell you some vinyl, if you ask nicely.