PHNTMS, Back Burner Review

PHNTMS is a Philadelphia based band that is built upon gritty guitars, a driving rhythm section and velvety vocals. PHNTMS is reaching out to and supporting the LGBTQA+ community since half of the band identifies as queer. Drummer Gene Murphy confides, “We openly talk about lesbian relationships in our music, and we want to bring hope to anyone who is in the closet and doesn’t feel safe coming out. Whether you are out as queer or not, your identity is valid, and if our music helps you escape heteronormativity for a brief moment.” The band is building a fan base across all communities, having performed opening spots for such acts as Kings of Leon, The 1975, Bastille and Fitz & The Tantrums to name a few.  The music is a mix between arena rock and the classic sounds of 1960’s soul singers. Comprised of Alyssa Gambino, Adam Jessamine, Mikal Smith, and Gene Murphy, the band is putting their own unique stamp on today’s rock sound. PHNTMS’ highly anticipated six-track self-titled EP soaks up the band’s amalgam of influences, ranging from movie soundtracks and bands such as U2, Biffy Clyro, Kings of Leon and Deaf Havana, to powerhouse soul singers such as Amy Winehouse. PHNTMS is releasing their lead single from their up-coming EP titled, “Back Burner.”

[section label=”Positives”] Positives: A wanting sound, that rocks with rhythm and soul. Filled with fiery layers of sound that hit and hit hard with melodies that linger and a sound that skyrockets.

[section label=”Bottom Line”] Bottom Line: “Back Burner” is a catchy melody with lyrics that deal with two people with bad timing and not being ready to take the next step into a relationship, despite there being a strong attraction. Vocalist Alyssa Gambino shares, “I’ve always kept a safe distance when having feelings for someone new and the ‘flame’ represents just that. For me, being placed on the back burner is a lingering reminder that I will be here waiting.” PHNTMS’ lyrics always find inspiration in everyday situations, relationships, and growing up, which all listeners identify with. Gambino reveals, “I think as songwriters, we try to capture these moments and make them as detailed as possible. We’ll always be fascinated by the fact we can freeze these moments…” Starting with a steady clean guitar figure, the band builds the feel for vocalist Gambino. The melody starts in her lower register, Gambino jumps to her powerful upper register for the chorus and second verse. The band expands the chorus with vocal harmonies, slightly dirty guitars and a more active drum pattern. The interlude segues nicely to a break-down section that builds to a climax. The result is “Back Burner,” which is a track that has all the elements of a great rock song. That’s the short of it!

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