Sprouting from the historic city of Columbia, Tennesse is Lower Still, a Post Hardcore/Rock quintet comprised of seasoned musicians spanning from various areas of the United States, and even Canada. Shortly after their formation in 2023, the group began the writing, then recording process for their upcoming Self-Titled EP, which has produced three singles so far. Making up the band are guitarists Stephen Otero and Ashley Schroeder, bassist Dre Rodriquez, drummer Michael Bagley (ex. Orthodox), and vocalist Christopher Salazar. Each member truly brings their own voice to the mix, building a musical experience that feels more authentic and organic.
On April 16th their first single, "DROWN" made its debut, and was swiftly added to the "Breaking Metal" playlist on Apple Music. Almost a month later, on May 14th, "CONTROL" followed, and was met with the same positive feedback from listeners. Then "STRONGER" was introduced on June 11th, and, like the previous two singles, it too has been receiving high praise, including my own.
I came across "STRONGER" shortly after its release and was caught off-guard by the song's cover art. It was unique compared to others I had seen recently; it had personality and something more that beckoned me to press play. I'd say that within seconds of it starting, I was mesmerized. It already had everything I was searching for, but there were still two minutes left. The verses kicked the song into drive and honestly had me eager to hear the chorus. When the moment came, my heart went up into my throat– it expanded right in front of me, full of power and that raw emotion I longed to witness. The song repeats similar verses and choruses but never feels dull. I couldn't ask for anything "different" for this track; it's an anthem, and absolutely meant to be cranked up to full volume with your windows down. I can easily imagine a small venue packed to the brim and attendees climbing over one another, eager to reach the stage, while this track booms through the room.
After learning Christopher's lyrics, my own experience and personal interpretation fully clicked. He briefly told me the feelings and themes around the first two tracks, and how he chose to write "Stronger":
"I knew with the first two songs being about feeling lost/broken/hurt/loneliness, I wanted this one to be about overcoming and staying strong, and making out to the other side. And after everything you get “stronger”."
Once I learned this, I actually went straight back to the EP and listened to each song in order, much more closely than before, and honestly felt those emotions he described as if they were my own. With where I am in life as of now and all I've been up against over the last few years, I see and feel heard.
I always share any new songs or albums I've heard for the first time with a couple close friends. I asked what they thought of all three singles, and their responses were fairly similar to mine: this is damn good music. Not only is the production quality excellent, but the songwriting and structure reflect craftsmanship and genuine dedication for music itself. I am not as familiar with hardcore and am not a musical expert. I can say, however, as a listener, if you enjoy the feeling of being engulfed by atmospheric melodic rhythms, powerful vocals, and relentless drums, then I'd say Lower Still might just be your next favorite band. They certainly are mine.
Music Mixed and Mastered by Kellen McGregor
FFO: Rise Against, Beartooth, Counterparts
