The Stanchions – Mentally Chill
The Stanchions’ new EP Mentally Chill is a sonic rollercoaster with depth
by Jack Rush
From the heart of Surrey, Canada, The Stanchions—brotherly duo Scott and Brett Mackey—deliver a punchy yet introspective ride with their latest EP, Mentally Chill. Scott handles guitar, vocals, and song-writing, while Brett takes charge of bass, drums, and production, proving that two people can create the raw energy of a full-fledged garage rock band. Their latest effort showcases a sound influenced by rock giants like Seether, Green Day, and Guns N’ Roses, but with a distinct signature that’s all their own.
If you’re looking for an EP that kicks you in the gut and then offers you a shoulder to lean on, Mentally Chill, is what you need. Balancing raw aggression with introspective emotion, the 3 song EP feels like a personal conversation set to electrifying guitar riffs and punchy drums. The lyrics navigate love, loss, and frustration, making it as cathartic as it is catchy. Whether you’re headbanging through life's frustrations or seeking a song that speaks to your soul, Mentally Chill drags you into the experience and refuses to let go.
Track-by-Track Breakdown
1. Doomed from the Start The EP opens with a track that’s ironically titled given just how strong this record is. With reverb-drenched guitars and a smooth, swaying rhythm, Doomed from the Start immediately sets the tone. The vocals are relaxed yet emotive, reminiscent of a frontman who’s more of a friend than a rockstar. The chorus doesn’t explode so much as it unfolds, making it subtly infectious—the kind of track that sticks with you like a fond summer memory.
2. Little Moments Leaning deeper into garage rock aesthetics, Little Moments is a mellow yet dynamic track that bridges alternative coolness with a road-worn Americana vibe. Dreamy verses lead into a well-crafted chorus, and if you listen closely, you might even hear the ghost of 2003 John Mayer lurking in the background. It’s the kind of song that feels tailor-made for a montage of someone driving away into the unknown.
3. Is That Alright? Closing the EP on a heartfelt note, Is That Alright? is the most nostalgic and introspective track of the three. The vocal performance carries a higher emotional pitch, making it feel like an earnest question rather than just a song title. It’s the moment on the record that makes you stop and reflect—because sometimes, life really is just a series of fleeting moments.
Final Verdict
Mentally Chill isn’t here to announce the second-coming of any rock legends, but that’s not the point. The Stanchions prove that great rock music doesn’t have to be boundary-pushing—it just has to feel real. With catchy hooks, a chilled-out atmosphere, and an earnest energy that shines through every note, this EP is a must-listen for fans of raw, heartfelt rock. No gimmicks, no pretension—just two brothers making great music.
Have a listen and connect with The Stanchions:
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