The Howlin’ Tramps is a vaudevillian-leaning nine-piece music collective based in Portland, Oregon, and fronted by enigmatic vocalist and burlesque performer Scarlet Siren. They have a style to them, perhaps with a nearest equivalence to a group like Alabama Shakes. The group is grandiose and audacious, an eclectic genre defying outfit that consistently pushes the boundaries to deliver increasingly more intriguing and infectious pieces. Drawing from soulful rock elements alongside Americana, Scarlett’s undeniably powerful and guiding vocals gives the impetus on a song as defiant as powerful as ‘Fuck You’. But there’s also an infectious vocal harmonisation going on behind the lead. As the chorus hits its crescendo and she delivers that ever so satisfying ‘Fuck You’, you feel a deep sense of catharsis and relief.
The arrangement is sublime, a host of instrumentals each finding their way into the piece at the perfect and most opportune moments. It’s rare to come across as psychedelic a blues rock group that’s as innovative but also innately addictive as Scarlett Siren & The Howlin’ Tramps. If the song alone isn’t enough, the video accompanying it will make fan out of you in no time.
One of my favourite songs of the year without a doubt, and a special one it is.