Shutter: Keeping the 90s Grunge Spirit Alive with a Modern Edge

The 90s grunge and alternative rock revival is still going strong, and Shutter from New Jersey is here to prove just how powerful and relevant that sound still is. Channeling the anthemic energy of bands like Nickelback and Three Days Grace while infusing their own youthful grit and charm, Shutter delivers a raw and emotionally charged rock experience. Their latest EP is packed with well-crafted songs that pay homage to the past while keeping their sound fresh and engaging for modern audiences.

One of the standout elements of Shutter’s music is the vocals. The lead singer has an impressive ability to shift between different emotional registers, bringing both clarity and intensity to his delivery. On What I Think I Follow, his voice carries a heartfelt, almost introspective tone, while on Silver Savior, he unleashes raw, impassioned screams that elevate the song’s emotional impact. The inclusion of backing vocals from the rest of the band helps to add an extra layer of catchiness, making the choruses more anthemic and memorable.

The bass work throughout the EP is another highlight. It has a thick, vibrant tone that stands out in the mix, giving the songs a deep and resonant feel. Tracks like Jean Dean and Erase Me showcase a strong, well-tuned bassline that complements the overall grunge aesthetic, adding a nostalgic 90s alt-rock vibe with a modern touch. This is the kind of bass playing that gives songs an underlying pulse, keeping them energetic and engaging from start to finish.

When it comes to drumming, the EP presents an interesting contrast. In the earlier tracks, such as What I Think I Follow and Jean Dean, the drums feel pulled back and restrained, maintaining a steady, supportive groove. However, by the time we reach Erase Me and Silver Savior, the drumming becomes much more lively and dynamic, injecting more energy into the mix. One standout moment is the china cymbal splashes on Burn, which add a nice atmospheric touch to the song.

The guitar work on the EP is solid and well-executed, perfectly fitting the band’s alternative rock sound. While the riffs don’t always demand attention, they do their job effectively, providing a strong melodic foundation for each track. Songs like Burn lean into a more restrained approach, making it one of the milder moments on the EP, but it still holds up well within the tracklist. Meanwhile, tracks like Silver Savior and Erase Me pack a grittier, more aggressive punch, adding variety and depth to the overall sound.

Production-wise, the EP is tight, well-mixed, and professionally layered. Nothing feels overproduced or underwhelming—everything sits right where it should in the mix. The crisp, balanced production ensures that the vocals shine, the guitars maintain their bite, and the rhythm section stays punchy and powerful.

If you’re looking for catchy, emotionally-driven alternative rock that blends 90s nostalgia with a fresh, modern sensibility, Shutter is a band worth checking out. Their ability to craft songs that feel both familiar and exciting makes them perfect for late-night drives, introspective moments, or just rocking out when you need a solid dose of alternative energy.