Pawnshop Motel is an indie/alternative rock duo hailing from Denver, Colorado. Pawnshop Motel is a creative project between two best friends that has stood the test of time for a decade. With their roots in DIY, their music is recorded by them as well in the co-founder's, Stew's, home studio.
They're making their return with their latest single, "Hostage," bringing a sound with them that now includes a heavier punk influence. Sharper, more emotional, but still weirdly motivational. While "Hostage" takes on a different sound than their prior work, it's certainly a vibe!
We have all had those relationships. You know the one I mean...it's love and hate, a constant push and pull. It's toxic. And that is exactly what "Hostage" is about. Those relationships where it's a constant war, but at the same time, you can't leave or don't want to. You feel, for lack of better words, "held hostage."
"Hostage" is a mix of raw lyrics and those fun punk traits we love in songs, from the beat to the shouting in unison. It's real, but still something you can headbang to while shouting at the top of your lungs. It keeps true to the punk music that started it all by not over-mixing them and allowing the vocals to sound just like they would live or in the recording booth.
The lyrics don't sugarcoat the words; they keep it real with the listener, almost forcing them to acknowledge any similar feelings that could exist in their own relationships. It's darker and moodier than their other songs, in the best way. Keeping the listener engaged with the fun tempo and rhythm while making sure the lyrics are articulate and blunt to confront the listener. It's music made for people who are in the healing process or are still in denial.
This sound is a lot of fun! The mix of The Offspring and Kings of Leon is a sound we need more of! Pawnshop Motel is bringing back the mid-2000s indie rock/punk sounds that we all loved, all while giving us songs that feel unedited, raw, and real. It's human, through and through. Therapy hidden within the music. This duo is an all-around win that I hope to hear and see far more from in the future!
Support Pawnshop Motel by checking out their website as well:
Photos: Press Kit
