Philadelphia band Her New Knife return with new track, "Lyre"

Philadelphia's emerging band Her New Knife has introduced their latest single, "Lyre," continuing their partnership with Julia's War Recordings, a label established by Doug Dulgarian of They Are Gutting a Body of Water. This release marks a significant milestone as the group’s first new material following their 2024 EP, "chrome is lullaby," and its subsequent deluxe edition which featured an array of remixes from a diverse roster of artists.

The band consists of vocalist and guitarist Edgar Atencio, guitarist Ben Kachler, bassist and vocalist Carolina Schooley, and drummer Elijah Ford. Since their inception, Her New Knife has cultivated a distinctive sound rooted in post-punk influences, blending textured guitar work with rhythmic complexity. Their continued evolution is evident in "Lyre," which introduces fresh yet familiar sonic elements.

"Lyre" emerges from a period where Atencio grappled with a creative lull, finding renewal through classical guitar arrangements. This track served as a reinvigorating force, propelling the band toward the completion of their upcoming album. The song features intricate drum patterns inspired by acts such as UNKLE and Massive Attack, highlighting the band's appreciation for atmospheric and layered percussion.

In addition to the percussion, "Lyre" incorporates shimmering guitar tones that mimic piano textures, a collaborative effort between Atencio and Kachler that enriches the track's melodic dimension. The inclusion of actual piano further diversifies the song’s sound palette, adding depth and a subtle classical influence that complements its post-punk foundation.

Lyrically, "Lyre" is straightforward and heartfelt, expressing a pure affection for music itself. This thematic simplicity contrasts with the song’s complex instrumentation, reflecting the band’s focus on emotional clarity paired with sonic experimentation.

Her New Knife’s relationship with Julia's War Recordings has been instrumental in their recent activity. The label, known for supporting innovative acts within the indie and experimental scenes, has provided a platform for the band to explore their artistic vision. The previous deluxe edition of their EP featured remix contributions from various artists, including They Are Gutting a Body of Water, Angel Emoji (Frost Children), Grimace, Red Rakes, Certain (Sword II), and SILICONE VALLEY, indicating a collaborative spirit within their musical community.

While details surrounding the full album that "Lyre" is associated with remain limited, this single signals a deliberate step forward in Her New Knife’s trajectory. It balances reverence for post-punk traditions with a willingness to incorporate classical and electronic textures, positioning the band as a notable presence in the contemporary Philadelphia music scene.

"Lyre" is now available through Julia's War Recordings, offering listeners a glimpse into Her New Knife's evolving sound and artistic direction. As the band prepares for further releases, this track stands as a testament to their creative resilience and commitment to crafting music that resonates both intellectually and emotionally.