Best of CBR Music with Vince Leigh
ADAM SCHRANZ – FACT OF THE MATTER
Hailing from Canberra, Adam Schranz is a multi-instrumentalist who attempts to defy the norms of contemp rock—a worthy artistic endeavour if there ever was one.
An independent artist with a penchant for blending diverse genres, Schranz creates an experimental and unfiltered sound with moments of finesse that give the work an enticing duality.
His musical development began with classical violin training, but his heart has found its true rhythm through the work of pop rock’s enduring torchbearers Queen, Bon Jovi, and Elton John.
This background and diverse influences underpin his approach to songwriting and performance. In 2022, Schranz released the single Charcoal Rose, followed by the 2023 album The Irrelevant Necessities. Each release showcased his ability to fuse these rock touchstones with myriad influences.
His latest track opens with an inviting guitar flourish that quickly morphs into a rock flavoured riff, creating an immediate hook. The initial disjointed rhythmic blends set the stage for a trip through Schranz’s soundscape. The verse, stripped back and raw, features Schranz’s voice at its most vulnerable.
His delivery has a particular unpolished swagger, a nod to his influences while forging his own path. The full band sound kicks in as the pre-chorus approaches, delivering a payoff with a lone vocal line that propels us into the chorus. Here, a focused hook is suitably complemented by counter guitar work, demonstrating Schranz’s propensity for weaving intricate musical parts and arrangements.
With its bumpy groove and guitar riff, the re-intro bridges the second verse, which introduces more instrumentation, adding depth and texture. Verse two builds on the established theme but with enriched layers of sound, leading into a pre-chorus now fortified by backing vocals, enhancing the melodic and emotional impact.
With its venomous lyricism, the chorus cements the track’s thematic core, exploring the concept of confronting harsh truths with a kicker line that resonates: ‘psycho horror from the ‘80s.’ A breakdown featuring atmospheric guitar tones provides a moment of introspection before launching back into the chorus.
The resolution of the track comes in the form of a psychedelic-tinged guitar solo, a fitting conclusion that leaves us in a state of reflection. Schranz’s previous work laid the groundwork with their edgy performances and production.
Fact Of The Matter pushes these elements further, showcasing an ability to blend a piercing narrative with a rich collage of sounds via an indie rock palette. Schranz has produced a track that enhances his growing discography and invites listeners to delve deeper, promising more genre-defying work.
Have a listen to Fact Of The Matter via Adam’s Linktree.