“Crowns,” the new single/lyric video from The Almas, is a song brought to life by heavy guitars, powerful percussion, and Aoede-like, evocative vocals.
Hailing from New Munster, Wisconsin, The Almas comprise Crystal Teigland (lead vocals), Frank Slifka (lead guitar), Josh Sukowski (guitar), and Andrew Ehredt. Co-written by Kile Odell, Frank Slifka, and Crystal Teigland, “Crowns” was produced by Odell.
The Almas recently signed with Wake Up! Music Rocks, an independent label founded by House vocalist Pepper Gomez.
Talking about The Almas, Pepper Gomez shares, “l have been listening to and watching The Almas for a while now – as have many others. Though what first drew me to them was their music, I have been equally impressed by their work ethic. After learning about what drives their art and voyaging to see them live, I knew in my heart that I wanted to sign them. I spent summers of my youth in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin and that connection was unexpected and welcome. This is a happy day for me and Wake Up! Music Rocks. I’m especially indebted to Nolan Hodges who thought of me as a potential partner for the band. He has been doing great things for The Almas!”
While on their part, The Almas explain, “It is an absolute honor and pleasure to be working with Pepper and Wake Up! Music Rocks. We work hard to surround ourselves with like-minded souls who embody the same passion for music and appreciation for the power that music can impart on this world. Wake Up! Music Rocks is the perfect fit for us, and we are blessed to be a part of the family!”
Formed in 2016, The Almas released their self-titled EP, followed by two long players, Back To Bad and Truth Sells. They have shared the stage with Saliva, Buckcherry, Royal Bliss, Plush, Saving Abel, Eva Under Fire, and Wayland, and toured with Smile Empty Soul.
Last year, The Almas toured extensively, performing 100 shows. In 2023, the band was nominated by the Josie Music Awards for both Best Rock Group and Best Music Video for “Cage.”
“Crowns” rolls out on a raw, stammering guitar topped by Teigland’s beguiling voice, vaguely reminiscent of Hayley Williams, only more nuanced. A bridge filled with chunky guitars builds the harmonics to the point of explosion, which introduces heavy guitars capped by Teigland’s soaring vocals – imbuing the lyrics with animal appetite. Stunning vocal harmonies infuse the song with vibrant depth and dimension.
Ebbing and rising on shifting textures, highlighted by a transfixing bass-heavy section, “Crowns” displays variegated coloration and surfaces, revealing elegant complexity.
“Crowns” is a sophisticated monster of a track, replete with thick, stormy guitars and the tension-and-release vocals of Crystal Teigland.
