Jesus or Genome
The Veil is Lifting
Sacred Plague
Street: 06.21
Jesus or Genome = Rocky Votolato + Sundowner + City and Colour
Jesus or Genome is the new project from Mike Cundick, guitarist and occasional screamer of local rockers Loom. Those expecting the same sharp guitar licks and chaotic energy of Cundick’s other band are in for a surprise, as Jesus or Genome is a much more mellow affair, featuring only Cundick’s voice over an acoustic guitar. On this 7” (available on red or black vinyl from Sacred Plague), Cundick gets some help from Cicadas violinist Kim Pack, though it’s Cundick’s thoughtful lyrics and affecting guitar work that compel listeners’ attention. It’s easy for acoustic solo projects to venture into pretentious and unlistenable territory, but Cundick manages to dig deep with his lyrics while keeping his music surprisingly fun and catchy. “Savior” has some great, quick fingerwork and a bouncy melody while “We Are Contagious” has a huge chorus that will be stuck in your head for days. Topping off a great package, the 7” comes with a download code that features a bonus track.