The GFM (Gold, Frankincense, & Myrrh) Band is comprised of three sisters: CJ (Guitar/Vocals), Maggie (Bass/Keys/Vocals) and Lulu (Drums/Vocals). Originally setting out in 2016 with their debut full-length Identity Crisis, followed in 2019 by EP Oh, The Horror!, the unit embraced early 00s influences, and would not sound out of place if they were released in that era. Having shared tours and stages with a host of artists such as Motionless in White, Chelsea Grin and Fozzy, the trio boast an impressive resume going into their latest release, Framing My Perception, and look to fully launch themselves to the forefront of the rock scene.
With Framing My Perception, GFM have notably moved on from the 00s elements that defined their earlier releases. On second track “Disrupt The Silence“, layered synths are introduced to add an extra element to their sound which slots in nicely among the grooves and riffs. Later on in the track, GFM pull out a breakdown that wouldn’t feel out of place on a track from their previous touring counterparts, Motionless in White. On heavier track “Honest Abe“, the group once again pull off these more aggressive moments, accompanied by some fitting harsh vocals. GFM have certainly turned it up a notch when it comes to their heavier aspects.
Their 00s influences can still be felt, with title track “Framing My Perception” harkening to it most closely. There is potential to the track, and its thematic contents, whilst the message is important, are somewhat too on-the-nose and don’t deviate too far from the norm. Despite this, it has catchy vocal melodies and an accessibly structure that makes it an easy and enjoyable listen, and is the best of the softer tracks. Closer “Why So Toxic” leans too heavily into the cheesy high school pop-punk, closing the EP on a sour note. Its sound is too generic and its structure too formulaic that it becomes difficult to appreciate.
The most significant change on Framing My Perception comes on the production and mix side. Whilst previous records have that rough-around-the-edges charm of 00s emo and alt rock, GFM have moved into a cleaner and radio-sounding mix. This is also where the EP hits its largest issues; it has essentially gone too far in that direction. Everything is super compressed and too forward, which can make it a tiresome listen on the ears even for such a short EP. While this is the norm for rock tracks, especially those looking to expand and grow, it does remove some of the charm that a record such as Oh, The Horror! had. When bands such as Static Dress, Moodring and Thornhill are all experimenting with how a record is constructed in its final stages, GFM have perhaps missed an opportunity to do the same.
With their latest EP, GFM show off signs of musicianship and character, but Framing My Perception feels like a stepping stone rather than a complete end product. Whatever comes next will hopefully offer up some a more expansive and unique sound, following the recent wave of experimentation entering the genre. Whilst it will potentially work in a commercial environment, the production and mixing side will remain a barrier for any future endeavours if it persists. The GFM Band will be one to keep an eye on for now, but their best work is still yet to come.
5.5/10
Framing My Perception is out May 27th via Rockfest Records, and can be pre-ordered here.