Helium114 is a pop/punk project by Luke Greene. Their new release, Paint EP, brings to mind bands like Philmore (aside from the occasional scream). The EP doesn't have the cleanest production out there, but that is honestly part of the charm of DYI punk rock. The raw and authentic nature helps to tame some of the sweetness of the pop side and gives you a balanced feel and sound overall. Vocally, Philmore comes to mind again with a style and sound very similar to Justin Greiman. One of my favorite aspects of this band, musically, is the use of guitar solos. "Melting" and "J0806," in particular, have great solos, and unfortunately, this is an artform that is missing from far too much punk music. With that said, the title track may be the most fun song and the fast guitar work is reminiscent of something Hangnail would play. Lyrically, the EP focuses on mostly love songs, but keeps God at the center. In "5:45" Greene sings, "How could you think that the world would break us when God made us both in one stroke of His paintbrush and we fit so right in the puzzle He placed us in. Simple to say, I think I liked you from the day we met." Fans of indie pop/punk and labels like Small Step Records should give Helium114 a listen.

- Review date: 3/25/22, written by Michael Weaver of Jesusfreakhideout.com

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