Friendship Commanders – High Sun

Friendship Commanders are a heavy duo from Nashville TN. Friendship Commanders’ latest track, “High Sun,” is a powerful and intense heavy rock song that beautifully blends elements of doom metal and shoegaze. As the third single from their highly anticipated LP “MASS,” co-produced, engineered, and mixed by the renowned Kurt Ballou, the band continues to impress with their unique sound and captivating storytelling. The song revolves around the central concept of leaving a place where one no longer feels welcome, which aligns with the overarching theme of their forthcoming album. Guitarist and vocalist Buick Audra, reflecting on her personal experiences, shares her emotional journey of carrying an enormous amount of shame after leaving Boston. She describes troubling moments and the aftermath that painted her as an outcast within her former social groups. In “High Sun,” Friendship Commanders confront the emotions tied to these experiences and shed light on the manipulative dynamics that plagued their past. Buick Audra’s lyrics delve into the control she experienced in a relationship where being different was seen as disobedience and subsequently punished publicly. She reflects on her younger self, who absorbed the blame, believing she was the problem. However, with newfound clarity, Buick recognizes the manipulation and the experts’ ability to make others feel like outsiders while deflecting responsibility. The instrumentation in “High Sun” perfectly complements the lyrical depth of the song. The heavy rock elements, influenced by doom metal, provide a strong foundation for the emotional weight of the track. The shoegaze influence adds a dreamy and ethereal quality, creating a unique sonic landscape that envelops the listener. “High Sun” is a cathartic and empowering anthem that invites listeners to confront their own past experiences of shame and manipulation. Friendship Commanders demonstrate their growth as artists, skillfully combining heavy rock, doom metal, and shoegaze to create a sound that is uniquely their own. With its big, fuzzy guitars and emotionally charged lyrics, this track is a testament to the band’s ability to create music that resonates deeply.