Tiny Tomboy’s Psychic Scar: A Raw, Electrifying Masterpiece That Demands Your Attention
- STAFF
- Feb 13
- 4 min read
By: Staff
Tiny Tomboy’s latest LP, Psychic Scar, is brimming with exceptional artistry, a testament to the band’s ability to craft something truly special. While we’ve highlighted a few standout tracks, we strongly encourage you to experience the entire album for the full, immersive journey.
“Only” kicks things off with a rumbling intensity, laying a rock-solid foundation of deep bass from Ethan Gould and thunderous drumming from Sam Seymour that paves the way for wailing guitars of Eliza Neiman-Golden and the hard-hitting rhythms. Within the first few moments, the track slams into a dramatic dead stop, an electrifying setup for Eliza Neiman-Golden’s vocal entrance. As a gentle guitar hums in the background, she launches into a razor-sharp lyrical roast of an unknown target, opening with the biting lines:
“You look like you call your mom / every day / she tells you you’re strong.”
At this point, we’re already smashing the follow button on Spotify, and anywhere else we can find them!
Whoever this song is about, they undoubtedly know, and if it were us, we’d be keeping a low profile. Tiny Tomboy isn’t pulling any punches. Neiman-Golden masterfully shifts between falsetto and a laid-back delivery, punctuating the performance and the band with staccato rhythms and abrupt stops. This approach gives the track a sharp, comedic edge reminiscent of an old-school rimshot (ba dum tss), only retooled with a raw, groovy, rock ‘n’ roll energy.
When we hear:
“Ever since you moved on / I’ve been lonely,”
-it’s clear that this isn’t just about some random creep at the bar but a deeper heartbreak, a jilted lover’s lament. The song’s interplay between biting sarcasm and genuine emotion is flawless, with the instrumentation amplifying the intensity. The drums punch through the mix, and the searing guitars allow Neiman-Golden to showcase intricate vocal phrasing that seamlessly balances melancholy and sheer frustration.
As the song builds, the delivery grows more impassioned, making it crystal clear where she stands. We love the mid-section’s gradual acceleration, subtly increasing the tension before dropping into another stark silence. Given that this album was recorded live, every nuance of their performance is captured in a way that feels immediate and electrifying. Rock ‘n’ roll is like a teenager’s bedroom, it feels more authentic when it’s a little messy. The chemistry between these musicians is undeniable, their energy feeding off one another in a way that’s both chaotic and beautifully cohesive. Sustained, distorted guitar slides and raw, visceral background screams (likely from drummer Sam Seymour) tie the entire track together. By the end, we almost feel bad for Neiman-Golden, but let’s be real, she probably dodged a bullet and is better off without that asshole.
Next, we had to talk about “Dead Dog”, because, honestly, how could we skip a song with that title? Opening with a gorgeous ballad-style intro, this track showcases the band’s range, proving they can seamlessly transition from gritty rock ‘n’ roll to something softer and more introspective. Once again, Neiman-Golden’s vocals shine, delivering a soaring and emotionally rich performance. The band as a whole is given space to flourish, beautiful drum fills, gritty yet melodic guitar work, and thunderous bass all coalesce in a way that feels effortless.
There’s a palpable sense that not only do these musicians love playing together, but they genuinely enjoy hearing one another. This deep camaraderie is essential for any great band, and Tiny Tomboy has perfected it. They don’t perform for the crowd, they perform for each other, and that authenticity translates into an unforgettable listening experience. Lyrically, “Dead Dog” has the bones of a classic country song, heartbreak and, well, a dead dog. But make no mistake, this is rock at its core. Just past the halfway mark, an unexpected shift takes hold, sending listeners into an ethereal soundscape. The vocal effects create a haunting, almost halo-like resonance, closing out the song with a striking, otherworldly touch. This band operates like a miniature rock ‘n’ roll orchestra, crafting dynamic, emotionally charged performances that leave a lasting impact.
Finally, we wrapped up with “Playboy,” a track bursting with infectious energy. Chiming, jangly electric guitars give way to riled-up, thunderous drums before slipping into a dreamy, reggae-infused groove. The result? A ridiculously catchy rhythm that’s impossible to resist. Thirty seconds in, and you’ll already be singing along to “Playboy”, trust us.
The band’s dramatic stylistic choices, combined with Neiman-Golden’s powerful vocal delivery, cement their distinct sound. We’re sticking with our newly coined nickname: orchestra rock. The electrifying solo, the roaring drum breakdown, and the impassioned screams that close out the track make for an exhilarating thrill ride. If you’re in the crowd, expect some bruises from all the likely slam-dancing. Tiny Tomboy knows exactly how to whip an audience into a frenzy, and if their live shows sound anything like this, we’re already clearing our schedules to buy tickets.
Psychic Scar by Tiny Tomboy was released via Mean World Records and recorded live, capturing the raw chemistry of the band. Tiny Tomboy consists of Eliza Neiman-Golden (vocals/guitar), Sam Seymour (drums), and Ethan Gould (bass).
This LP is everything we love about rock music, chaotic, heartfelt, razor-sharp, and packed with raw emotion. If you haven’t already, go listen. You won’t regret it.
Check out this latest release and listen to more on Spotify & YouTube