Wallows Wow With Rocky Twist On The Marias' ‘No One Noticed’

Swapping sultry tones for Strokes-esque lead guitar lines and stunning vocals, LA based American indie-rock band Wallows aced their recent cover of The Marias’ ’No One Noticed’ at their ‘Like A Version’ session, the iconic sessions hosted by national Australian radio station triple j.

Keeping close to the original with the electronic theme, the performance kicks off with an alternating synth keyboard, before quickly being joined by band member Braeden LeMasters’ plucky guitar and vocals. Drums, and additional vocals then punch in thanks to Cole Preston, before an effects-drenched guitar kicks in with the song’s lead riff, setting the tone for the rest of the session.

Lasting just over three minutes, this Wallows cover is really well put together. Tight drum patterns set the pace as wild distortion-fuelled electric guitar is allowed to run rather free behind lead vocalist Dylan Minnette. The performance sets a great balance between structured and emotive playing, with the lead guitar’s free flowing state juxtaposing well with the more structured and caged barre chords of the second guitar. 

Minnette’s performance is bright and intentional, with his lead vocal blending well with the medley of electronic instruments at play. The highlight of his performance is the bridge, where his vocal is set in the spotlight, with only a plucky, grungy guitar as company.

Backing vocals are provided by the aforementioned LeMasters and Preston, who bring a dynamic depth with inter splicing harmonies at key points of the track. 

Purposeful, interesting and most importantly, entertaining, this is a home run cover by Wallows.

Dan Jones

Image: Cloudy Thoughts / Atlantic Records

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