SAWMOON – “Madness” [Song Review]

New Jersey-based hard rock/grunge outfit SAWMOON released their new single, “Madness,” at the beginning of 2025. Even though worthy of attention, for some reason, the song flew under the radar.

Talking about the track, SAWMOON says, “‘Madness’ started as a jam in the summer of 2019.  Mike started playing this riff and we knew it was special.  The lyrics delve into the cyclical nature of violence and of history repeating itself.  The second verse touches on stories I have heard about migrants seeking asylum in the US. People who endured or witnessed horrific tragedies as they traveled North in hopes of something better for their lives.”

Made up of Mike Virok (guitar), Scott Miller (bass and backing vocals), Frank Lettieri Jr. (drums and lead vocals), “Madness” was engineered and mixed by Lettieri, and mastered by Ted Jensen at Sterling Sound.

Opening on heavy, gleaming guitars, “Madness” transitions to a low-slung, alternative melody that drips with portentous tension, an incipient pressure boosted by Lettieri’s tight, almost whispery vocals. On the chorus, the vocals and guitars elevate with raw, tempestuous energy.

SAWMOON, photo courtesy of artist

With “Madness,” SAWMOON summons forth wild, primeval emotions and anomalous responses of ferocity and aggression.

Run Time: 3:37
Release Date: January 6, 2025
Record Label: Independent