Connecticut based indie-emo project Frightful Places explores the dreaded question: Is it better to be lonely around others or be confident and alone? ‘Third Wheel’ blends the project’s already established introspective lyrics with a more aggressive tone to demonstrate an evolution in its sound.
Described as “a haunted emo passion project”, Frightful Places is the solo alias of Kevin Tiernan (Mighty Tortuga, Moving Brooklyn), and perfectly blends nostalgic emo with modern, polished production. Where classic emo was fuelled by an unbridled and raw expression of feeling, Frightful Places has an acute ability to put into words all the complexities of thought and instinct.
Released September 19, ‘Third Wheel’ quickly establishes an atmosphere of discomfort, and the experimental instrumentation and structure creates an expansive listening experience. Tiernan elaborates: “the choruses don’t repeat where they usually would, and the second verse timing was inspired by Tubular Bells (Mike Oldfield). I love bands like Movements, Boston Manor, and Citizen, so I really wanted to capture the same energy.”
More gritty and high-energy than previous releases, ‘Third Wheel’ doesn’t shy away from the awkwardness and doubt that come from not fitting in, but encourages its listener to build themselves up.
It’s clear from the beginning that the song’s message of finding confidence in uneasy situations is the focus. Where previous single ‘Spirits Are Up!’ showed a softer side of Frightful Places, ‘Third Wheel’ relinquishes a little self-control and allows something more electric to come through.
Staying true to form, ‘Third Wheel’ continues the project’s mission to use the fear of the unknown or unsettling and let it drive you instead of hold you down.
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Bio:
Frightful Places, based in New Haven, CT, lends emo, indie, and alternative influences from bands like Thrice, Movements, and Foxing, with haunting melodies and introspective lyrics. The project, led by Kevin Tiernan (Mighty Tortuga), is the cathartic result of 8 years of self-reflection, written in bedrooms across Connecticut and along the Appalachian Trail.
