In their lead single “Wear Me Out” Summer Cannibals ask that you not wear them down. Probably because this Portland-based band knows a thing or two about that already. It’s what can happen when you are a band producing, creating all the original artwork for, and releasing your debut album (No Makeup, due out on August 6th) on none other than your own record label.
“Don’t wear me down. Wear me out,” pleads lead singer Jessica Boudreaux, begging to be worn out everyday, like “your favorite dress.” Unlike the tedium that comes in getting worn down, getting worn out like your favorite dress implies late nights, spontaneous adventures, and if you’re in Portland, something weird.
It’s Boudreaux’s apathetic delivery that draws you in and makes the request seem that much more urgent. Like she’s in dire need of an instant shot of excitement. That is until the brash guitar solo ducks in after the chorus and disrupts the playful “oohs” and “aahs.” The guitar solo is a welcome contrast to the monotone delivered vocals, a contrast that Boudreaux may feel she has to provide herself if no one is going to answer her call.
