Shun – Dismantle
Shun are a heavy rock band based in North/South Carolina. They released their Self Titled album back in June of 2021 on Small Stone Records. It was a fantastic debut and one of my favorites from that year. I was excited to hear about their second record Dismantle coming out which is also on Small Stone Records. The current lineup of Shun consists of: Matt Whitehead on guitar and vocals, Rob Elzey on drums, and Jeff Baucom on bass. Additional musicians on Dismantle includes J. Robbins, who produced and recorded the band and added in some percussion, synths, and guitar, along with Bo Leslie on guitar. Matt Whitehead and Bo Leslie played together in the mighty Throttlerod (Bo played on the classic Hell And High Water record.) Dismantle was released on July 19th, 2024 and contains 10 songs around 41 minutes long.
“Blind Eye” opens the record with clean guitar and shuttles into a heavy rock pounding. It transitions back into the softer segments as Whitehead’s vocals begin. The song wavers back into a heavier structure and continues to shift back and forth between the two dynamics. The sound quality is very good on this recording. All the instruments are at equal levels in the mix and the use of synthesizers as background ambience really enhances this song, as right before the guitar solo kicks in. The post rock noise elements are in full effect on Dismantle too. “Aviator” has a catchy guitar melody and is complimented nicely with Whitehead’s voice. I was always a big fan of his singing going back to the Throttlerod days. “Horses” showcases more melodies with rhythmic flourishes. The pause for clean guitars mixed with rocking rhythms are enticing. “Drawing Names” has a similar effect seamlessly flowing from melodic to all out rocking in an instant. The double bass drumming on the chorus is also a nice touch to the song. This was the first single from the album.
Angular guitar noises are weaved into the music throughout these songs with such finesse. Shun has a good blend of softer songs also with “Stoms” and the closer “Interstellar.” However, one of my favorite cuts on Dismantle is “Nrns.” It’s a faster rocking song that spawns some heavy and grooving riffs. “You’re The Sea” has more noisy guitar bleeding with a nice distorted bass line driving the rhythm. Again, Whitehead’s vocals shine on this one. At times, they remind me of the band Quicksand. “The Getaway” is another banger and highlight for me, on this record. They incorporate some great riffing with this one. “Through The Looking Glass” is solid as well and has a good guitar lead at the end. The final track “Interstellar” starts slow with a nice warm and distorted bass line. The clean guitar sprinkled in with a basic drum beat and beautiful singing really encapsulates this song. It builds up a little heavier but keeps it subtle.
Dismantle didn’t immediately grab me upon the first few listens like their debut did. It took some time for the songs to marinate in my subconscious for me to fully appreciate them. The more I listen to the record, the more I realize how dynamic and brilliant it is. Shun continues to expand their sound utilizing post rock noise, heavy guitar riffs, and melodic flourishes. Some of my favorite records start off as slow growers and Dismantle is no exception. I am really looking forward to seeing where the band will go from here. I encourage people to give this one a chance.
https://shuntheband.bandcamp.com
