The indie rock duo, formed by Tony Fredianelli (formerly of Third Eye Blind) and Lauren Schiff, continue to blend nostalgia with fresh perspectives in their upcoming album Funny Money.
Laughing Cats Unleash a Self-Reflective Anthem with New Single "Jerk"
Laughing Cats, the innovative indie rock duo made up of Tony Fredianelli and Lauren Schiff, have released their second single, Jerk, from their debut album Funny Money. Dropping on November 1, 2024, the song showcases a nostalgic blend of 80s and 90s rock influences while delivering a powerful message about personal accountability.
Jerk acts as an anthem for self-reflection and growth. The lyrics flip the script, with the narrator owning up to past mistakes in a refreshingly honest way. In a world where it's easy to blame others, Jerk empowers listeners to take responsibility, proving that true strength comes from admitting when we're wrong. As the band says, “Admitting fault is a place of power,” and this track is a rallying cry for self-improvement.
About Laughing Cats
Laughing Cats is the brainchild of Tony Fredianelli, former guitarist of multi-platinum band Third Eye Blind, and Lauren Schiff, a New York stage actress turned singer-songwriter. Tony brings a wealth of experience from his years with 3EB, where he influenced iconic tracks like Semi-Charmed Life and Motorcycle Drive By. Lauren, meanwhile, brings theatrical storytelling to the table, creating a dynamic partnership that fuses rock history with fresh creativity.
Their shared love for pre-Y2K rock and pop is evident. Influences span from 60s pioneers like The Beatles and Lou Reed to 80s new wave giants like New Order and The Cure. Yet, their music isn't just a nostalgic trip; it's a reimagining of these classic sounds for today’s world.
The Making of Jerk
Written by Lauren Schiff, Jerk was inspired by observing a man in her life who desperately wanted to win back his estranged partner. The song captures a universal experience: realizing that we must better ourselves, not just for others but for our own growth. Although the lyrics are deeply introspective, the upbeat rock instrumentation—complete with Tony’s signature guitar riffs—keeps the song from feeling heavy.
Lauren originally envisioned Jerk as a male-sung track, drawing inspiration from artists like Matt Shultz of Cage the Elephant. Yet, the final version stands strong with her unique delivery, bringing an edge that’s both raw and relatable.
“GYB,” their debut single, laid the groundwork for what listeners can expect from Funny Money, and Jerk takes it a step further. The duo plans to release the album waterfall style, unveiling one track every 4-6 weeks to keep fans engaged and excited.
Why You Should Listen to Jerk
If you’re a fan of alt-rock anthems with clever lyrics and infectious hooks, Jerk is a must-listen. It’s a song that acknowledges our shared human flaws while making you want to dance, a rare combination that Laughing Cats pull off seamlessly. The track serves as a reminder that growth comes from within and that it's okay to admit when you’ve been, well, a jerk.
With its bold sound and introspective theme, Jerk is more than a song—it's a call to self-awareness wrapped in a rock anthem. As Laughing Cats continue to unveil their Funny Money album, their fusion of classic influences and modern sensibilities is sure to make waves.
Jerk by Laughing Cats is now available on all major streaming platforms. Keep an ear out for more tracks from Funny Money as they roll out over the coming months.
Genres: 90s Rock, Alt Rock, Pop, Alternative Rock, Rock Pop, Alternative Pop
Moods: Reflective, Energetic, Nostalgic
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