Soap Opera are exploring their softer side on their upcoming EP, Be Fine. “Tension Mountain,” the second single to be released from the EP, has the St John’s-based psych-rock band rounding out the corners – interlacing a fuzz-fuelled guitar solo over a deep groove. Following up on their distinctly upbeat 2017 release, India, the track is a clear indicator of the band’s versatility as more than a one-trick pony.
Soap Opera explain that “Tension Mountain” was inspired by the fleeting feeling of momentary chemistry between strangers as the two fire glances across a room in Montreal, or street-corner, or aboard a busy flight. It’s the first catalytic sparks of potential, perhaps half-imagined, dangerous and daunting, and ultimately fruitless.
“‘Tension Mountain’ describes an untouchable yet imminent climax that can never be reached,” explain the band.
And maybe that’s for the best. These little self-contained moments are perfect – provided that they can be accepted as just that; wild immaculate romances devoid of the empty disappointment of a one-night stand or the complications and heartache of a full-blown relationship.
To quote the antiquated bro-dude, toxic masculinity stereotype of the doubly-fictional character Tyler Durden of Fight Club fame, these are what we refer to as “single-serving friends.” Or the diet version of the same which, considering the disarming paralysis of a smile, however tempting, amounts in a total lack of interaction beyond what the eyes might convey.
“I asked all of my friends if I was acting foolish and they said, ‘Of course you are, Peter, but that’s what makes you human,” lament the band in a touchingly relatable expression of self-awareness. Ultimately, though, the track comes off as chic and sophisticated.
Recorded in Halifax, Nova Scotia and engineered/mixed by Alex Sheppard, Soap Opera’s new EP, Be Fine, is out February 7, 2020.
Tour Dates:
12.20.19 – St. John’s, NL @ The Rockhouse*
*Justin Strong + Thelma & Louise