Long Island acoustic punk duo Bitters and Distractions have released a new two track single, Standing in Kitchens at Parties / Constant Now. Vocalist and lyrics writer Jeremy Quitko takes inspiration from his nomadic past life. After settling in New York and losing touch with a long time friend and bandmate, he started sending lyrics to friend and guitar player Travis Johnides. Between new lyrics, and resurfacing old ones, Bitters and Distractions started making music. Both members have long histories in touring and making music.
“Standing in Kitchens at Parties” is surely an anthem to the 30-somethings who used to rage and slam at parties and shows, but no longer do. It’s to the folks who have moved to the back of the show, and have responsibilities the next day. The kitchen seems to be the place with the most gravitational pull at parties where the group no longer ends up going through tables or running naked down the street. Musically it is delivered with pure 90s/00s punk resurgence feel. There is angst and grit in the vocal delivery and a sing along chorus. It’s catchy in all the right ways. This a song that will definitely bring up memories of fun days gone by.
“Constant Now” has a bit of a darker edge to it. It’s softer and more melodic. The grit in the vocal delivery remains, but the angst feels to have been turned to regret. The catchy and sing along chorus easily sticks and pushes the point of the song. This is one for remembering those who are gone, from either death or broken relationships. A reminder of what its like to grow up and have to do what’s necessary to get by.
Bitters and Distractions seem to know just what to do to bring out emotions. Either comical in the sense of what its like to be 30+ at a party, or when long time friends are gone from the current life. Standing in Kitchens at Parties / Constant Now is available now on streaming platforms and for download on Bandcamp and from the bands website.
