8/10
After nearly three decades in the shadows, Tension Splash roar back into the spotlight with 'Blur', a four-track EP that feels both like a love letter to the 90s alternative scene and a bold step forward for the outfit. Unearthed from old studio archives and finished in the wake of bassist Mike Bertsch’s passing, these songs breathe new life into a band that refuses to be confined by the past.
Right from the opening blast of 'Willing', you’re reminded of why this Michigan outfit made waves in the first place. The track is a relentless, riff-heavy charge, punctuated by razor-wire harmonies courtesy of Stephen Richards (Taproot), injecting raw power that grabs hold and doesn’t let go.
The momentum shifts beautifully with 'Firefly', a dusty, roots-tinged anthem that feels like driving down an empty highway at sunset, haunted by memories of lost friends and fleeting days. There’s a bittersweet warmth here that’s both comforting and aching, a fitting tribute to Mike and the inexorable passage of time.
'Scared' takes things deeper, leaning into a darker, atmospheric space that harks back to the brooding spirit of early alt-rock. It’s a song that feels like it could soundtrack a late-night existential spiral, drawing you into its ghostly embrace.
The closing medley of '7:45AM / Breathe' is the EP’s crowning achievement. It starts quietly, weaving introspective textures before exploding into a cathartic crescendo that feels like a sunrise breaking through after a long, sleepless night. It’s a powerful moment that encapsulates everything 'Blur' is about; remembrance, release, and the refusal to fade away.
In all, 'Blur' is a testament to survival, and holding on to the essence of what makes a band special even after decades apart. Tension Splash have managed to merge nostalgia and fresh urgency into a body of work that feels vital and necessary. If you’re a fan of big, uncompromising guitar sounds, emotional weight, and the kind of authenticity that only comes from hard-lived experience, 'Blur' is not to be missed. It’s a reminder that even after years of patience, some voices come back louder and more resonant than ever.
