by Scott Roos
live photos by Tracy Creighton (Copperblue Photography and Design)
Our Grade: B+
Bitterfly’s new single, “Host Club,” marks an exciting evolution in the band’s sound, departing from their darker TunnelKids roots. Inspired by a documentary about a Japanese woman who scammed men out of nearly $1 million to spend on host clubs, the song explores themes of lust, money, and loneliness. The lyrics incorporate direct translations of conversations between the scammer and her victims, adding a raw, personal touch to the track.
Musically, “Host Club” blends pop-infused hard rock with a hint of punk energy, drawing a strong comparison to Paramore while maintaining its own unique style. The upbeat, driving guitar riff sets a dynamic tone, and an ethereal atmosphere emerges in the chorus. The verses have a shout-along quality, contrasting with the chorus in a way that adds intrigue. Ariel Bueckert’s vocals stand out with a distinctive take on the Hayley Williams’ aesthetic, although there’s a cocktail of other vocal musings in there. Her voice offers both strength and vulnerability. The song is fun, catchy, and dynamic, balancing its playful sound with meaningful lyrical content.
The band, under a new moniker, featuring Ariel Bueckert (lyrics, vocals), Andrew Bueckert (guitar, vocals, production), Anthony Pawluk (drums), Alex Zurevinzky (bass), and Kyle Casey (guitar)—brings fresh energy to this release, with production by Andrew Bueckert at Parasite Records and drums recorded at Garfield Sound Labs by Randy Farkas. With its engaging mix of upbeat rock and thought-provoking lyrics, “Host Club” is a strong follow-up to their debut single “Waves”, setting the stage for Bitterfly’s upcoming debut EP, scheduled for release in Spring 2025.