If you love discovering bands just before they blow up, this is one of those moments.
Columbus trio Palette Knife have announced their upcoming LP Keyframe, landing April 10, and they’ve dropped a new single and video for “Sleep Paralysis” to give us a proper taste of what’s coming. And honestly, it rips.
They describe their sound as Nerd Core Midwest Emo, and somehow that feels completely accurate. The album was mixed by Billy Mannino (Oso Oso, Macseal, Ben Quad), and it carries that perfect balance of heartfelt songwriting, huge choruses, and clever little details that reward repeat listens.
Right from the jump, opening track “Phoenix Down” makes its intentions clear. It starts with this wall of sound that slowly builds for over a minute before exploding into hook after hook, the kind that gets stuck in your head whether you like it or not. It’s punchy, emotional, and ridiculously fun, setting the tone for what turns into a seriously addictive ten track ride.
Keyframe feels like a love letter to early 2000s pop punk catchiness mixed with mathy breakdowns and modern emo honesty. There are serene melodies, groovy rhythms, and choruses made for shouting along in your car. It’s one of those records that manages to feel both polished and personal, like the band are letting you in on something special.
If you’re into big hooks, heartfelt moments, and albums that reward front to back listens, Keyframe might be about to become your new favourite. April 10 can’t come soon enough.
