Dennis Davison Explores Lo-Fi Psychedelia and Salamander Symbolism on ‘Sirens and Hellbenders’
Dennis Davison returns with ‘Sirens and Hellbenders,’ a playful yet poignant psych-pop trip that folds together nature, lo-fi textures, and philosophical musings into a colorful swirl.
Out now on Pretty Plague Recordings, the album is packed with catchy melodies and curious themes. From the opening track ‘Putting Up With People’ to the woozy closer 536 AD, Davison taps into the surreal with a wink and a hook.
“Sirens and hellbenders are words that imply chaos, but they’re also two types of salamanders. I’ve always loved nature—it’s a beautiful jumble,” says the LA based singer/songwriter.
A longtime figure in underground music, Davison first made his mark with United States of Existence and later with the Grammy-nominated Jigsaw Seen. His solo work carries the same adventurous spirit, blending British-influenced rock with experimental leanings. Standout tracks include ‘Invisiblia,’ a ghostly anthem for imaginary girlfriends, and ‘Why Do We Need A God,’ a beautifully strange ode to the chaos and wonder of the natural world. With ‘Sirens and Hellbenders,’ Davison once again proves that weird can be wise, and catchy can still be profound.
Davison sings: Blistering heat from a slow burning lame brain/Climate is altered, we’re circling the storm drain/Legacy welfare, born into a fortune/King of inheritance, prince of distortion/Oh no where did the sun go.
Headline photo: Michelle Krupkin
Dennis Davison Website / Facebook / Instagram / Bandcamp
United States Of Existence interview
