JJ’s Music Retaliation fires off a Rock ripper with “Angry Doormat”
If there’s one thing JJ’s Music Retaliation have never been accused of, it’s playing it safe. Known for their searing, experimental approach to genre-bending rock, the band’s latest single, “Angry Doormat,” delivers a sharper, more focused blast of rock fury — ditching much of the cosmic synth haze from their earlier work in favor of punchy guitars, off-kilter rhythms, and vocals that refuse to be ignored.
“Angry Doormat” kicks off with a soaring and in your face guitar riff that immediately catches you off guard. The off-beat rhythm isn’t so much disorienting as it is invigorating — a head-nodder with a little left-field wobble to it. At the heart of this controlled chaos is drummer James Dooley, who turns in a fantastic performance. His percussion work here is inventive and relentless, providing a rhythmic backbone that drives the track while giving it a sense of restless momentum. It’s the kind of drumming that doesn’t just keep time, it tells a story.
The guitar work on “Angry Doormat” is equally dynamic. The track weaves together gritty, classic rock riffs with lean, modern textures, creating a sound that feels both timeless and of-the-moment. There’s a vintage swagger in the way the main riff struts, but it’s tempered by sharp, contemporary production choices and moments of sudden acoustic clarity. Midway through, the electric storm pulls back to reveal an unexpectedly tender acoustic guitar passage — a brief, melodic reprieve before the band lurches back into its raw, riff-heavy assault. It’s a clever arrangement trick that adds depth and contrast without feeling gimmicky.
The song’s biggest asset, though, might be its vocals. This is a vocal-forward track in every sense, with a performance that’s as emotive as it is confrontational. The delivery rides the line between melodic grit and unfiltered frustration, perfectly capturing the track’s lyrical themes of self-respect, boundaries, and long-simmering resentment finally breaking through. It’s a relatable sentiment for anyone who’s ever felt undervalued, and the catharsis in the chorus hits like a shot of pure adrenaline.
What makes “Angry Doormat” stand out in JJ’s Music Retaliation’s growing catalog is its balance of aggression and craft. It’s a heavy, sweaty, unfiltered rock song at its core, but it’s also smartly structured, with well-placed dynamic shifts and an attention to detail that reveals itself with each repeat listen. The blend of classic rock touchstones and modern indie grit ensures it feels fresh without losing sight of its roots.
If this is a hint of what’s to come, JJ’s Music Retaliation might be about to hit their stride in a big, loud, and gloriously messy way. As always, we never know what to expect, but this one was a masterclass in breaking down barriers. Listen up and follow along by clicking those links below.
Like what you read? Follow our social media and playlist for the latest in independent music:
