Written by: Oliver Heffron

Reno-based rock band Surf Curse hit their stride on their major-label debut Magic Hour, out today via Atlantic Records. Following the sudden viral success of their single “Freaks” in 2020, eight years after its initial release, Surf Curse’s sound has seen an exciting development as they perfect their hard-hitting indie-rock sound while expanding into new musical territories with each new release. 

Exploring new aspects of their sound while retaining their core, Magic Hour see original members Nick Rattigan (drums/lead vocals) and Jacob Rubeck (guitars) introduce new members Noah Kohll (guitars) and Henry Dillon (bass) to the band with their most polished project to date, delivering a stimulating experience from the blistering opener “Arrow” to the intimate, slow progression of closer “Randall Flagg.” 

“Sugar” delivers a power-pop anthem with thick guitar riffs with an explosive vocal performance, while “Lost Honor” steps to a punk beat before unleashing an infectious guitar and vocal harmony. “Self-Portrait” grabs you by the throat with its impeccable guitar riff, perfectly executed screams, and immaculate mixing that retains the energy of a live performance. 

The band steps out of their guitar and throat-shredding space with grace as “Cathy” soaks in sun-drenched guitars, “Strange” jams out to moonshine-tinged melancholy, and “No Tomorrows” rocks gently back and forth with a sweet, somber rock pace. “Unwell” might be the band’s most impressive song to date, cycling from an upbeat folk bounce to heavily distorted metal riffs before slicing both sides together seamlessly with pianos and live strings, however “Fear City” makes its claim with its incredibly fast-rhythm, gripping narrative, and show-stealing saxophone feature.

If you want to catch Surf Curse shred in person, the band is rounding out the European leg of its world tour and is coming back to the states at the end of the month. Check out the dates here.