TIME UNDER TENSION BY WAR ON WOMEN PROVIDES ANTHEMS OF SURVIVAL
War on Women has been commanding space in the alternative scene since their inception and first release over a decade ago, bringing women to the forefront and demanding an end to oppression. Composed of vocalist Shawna Potter, guitarist Brooks Harlan, bassist Sue Werner, and guitarist Jennifer “Jenarchy” Vito, this highly accomplished and multifaceted group is making their mark on history in more ways than one. Their latest album Time Under Tension makes their voice even louder as they release the anger that comes with living through a global political regression.
“Precious Problem” opens the album firing on all cylinders. It's got crowd chanting appeal combined with their iconic social commentary. The synth loop makes it feel like a futuristic warning, then things take off at breakneck speed. You get pulled in as the lyrics delve into what it's like suffering under someone with a drinking problem; the lies, manipulation, and constant guilt tripping. It speaks to being fed up and confronting an addict head-on, wishing them peace but knowing they're ruining your life and you need to get out.
What I love about “Spun Sugar” is the unplugged sound that it has. It's messy, frantic, and full of energy in a way that brings basement shows to the recording. While the song is short, it packs a punch with the aggressive drums and bouncy guitar. The stuttered vocals are almost drowned out by the instrumentation in a way that's charming and intentional.
“Messages Unsent” is a sudden bright shift in sound. It's nostalgic and sweet, unlike the previous two tracks. The yearning and regret come through so well, and the chorus vocals give a vintage vibe. In a way, it feels like those background vocals are reassuring that letting go after loss is okay, and that moving on is what the other person would have wanted. It's still painful, but in a way that shows a light at the end of the tunnel.
That brief interlude increases the punch behind "More Than Muscle". The tempo fills you with energy as the song progresses, giving it a home on those fitness playlists where you need to be pushed to go that extra mile. In this extremely guitar-driven track, Shawna reminds us that this entire system is made up and can be destroyed. We have the power to tear it all down and build something better, and "More Than Muscle" fuels the fire we need to do that.
Things slow down again on "Serve," where Shawna offers these impressive haunting vocals. Driven by the strong drumbeat, this song is a clear shaming of those who pretend to "protect" and "serve". The more acoustic lean to the guitar makes the whole song feel grounded, again focusing on the pain of loss with that hint of catharsis.
"Shapes" hits you with these climbing and spiraling guitar riffs, provided with extra depth by the bass that is highlighted in the solo segments. The tie between the frantic tempo and lighting quick lyrics pushes that feeling of internal panic, where thoughts escape to the abstract no matter how hard you try to grasp at them. Even the guitar slips through your fingers between the tumbling verses.
"Feels Good" repeats the theme of “Precious Problem” while tackling it from another angle, exploring the ways people can cling to whatever narrative makes them a victim as a part of their identity. It focuses on the delusions of those who let their hate and preconceived notions outweigh reality. This more grungy sound is heavy with solid basslines and epic guitar. The drums hold their place as the main tone setter as they rumble and roll in the background, emphasizing the other parts of the song. It stands out as a more traditionally punk song, and ends with a gut punch line: “I just heard from my family, and they're happier without me.”
What I love about “Malevolence” is the way it seems to slither into existence. It has a sinister and pervasive sound with its starting instrumental that builds up to such a satisfying explosion. It's another track that pushes for change, fighting against an army of false protectors in overpriced cosplay. The sudden shift from rage to a droning haze that lists the crimes of our oppressors, then another buildup before vanishing like smoke, takes you on a journey.
“Balance” coming next is such a genius move. All of that aggression turning into a song about hope and the idea that things can actually get better saves you from falling into despair. Sure, it's full of uncertainty, but the way this song really leans into feeling like a diary is satisfyingly raw.
Despite the silly name, “The Movie Fear Starring Reese Witherspoon” may be my favorite. It's a self destructive song, with a lot of shame laced throughout the story. The nearly out-of-body perspective, like watching a movie when you know the twist but refuse to accept it, is unsettling in a good way. The guitar chases you until it hits a downward spiral, while the bassline is applying a steady pressure. The drums never seem to take a break. All that combined is wonderful, but it's that creeping quiet moment in the song that really sticks with you, like the oasis from the scorching reality.
Bringing back the synth for “Hunger Stones” really brings things full circle. This song has a traditional and homey vibe to it that feels like a confession. It's not trying to be something grand and showy, but it takes your breath away regardless. Like a horseman of the apocalypse, this quiet tension moves through you with its sorrow and shame and the seething anger beneath it all. The siren song of backing harmonies call you to witness the end. The crescendo hits like a wave and pulls you under, almost catching you away. Drowning in a sea of emotion, this finale is heartbreakingly stunning.
The beauty of Time Under Tension stems from the ebb and flow of energy. The versatility that comes from these racing tracks to siren-like melodies hit on nearly every angle of human emotion. By stepping into all of these different energies, there's a track that highlights each member. When it all comes together, Time Under Tension soothes old hurts and provides the direction to enact change.