Sonic Methadone: i bands 'Enemy' Dives into the Bipolar Mind
i band’s latest video, Enemy, takes a haunting approach to the battle within, blending beautiful melodies with unsettling truths—a sonic embodiment of Tom Waits' famous quote: “I like beautiful melodies telling me terrible things.” Paying homage to the Pixies’ signature melodic grunge, Enemy delivers what guitarist Paul calls “sonic methadone”—a raw yet hypnotic experience that soothes while exposing deep emotional wounds.
Lyrically, Enemy plunges into the unstable terrain of a bipolar mind, where self-doubt and self-destruction reign. The chilling refrain—"My mind is my enemy"—is as isolating as it is revealing. Vocalist and lyricist Al describes the condition in stark terms: “Bipolarity is like breathing through a straw. You get enough oxygen to survive, but not enough to actually live.”
Visually, the music video manifests this internal battle, exposing the raw madness that lurks beneath the surface. Through fragmented emotional expressions and a disorienting, non-linear narrative, Enemy forces the viewer to confront the loneliness of an untrustworthy mind. It’s not just a song—it’s an unfiltered glimpse into the chaos within.
Are you ready to face your worst enemy?
ENEMY Cover
Biography
Formed in the early '90s by Paul and Al, i is an LA-based rock band that has carved their own distinctive path in the music scene. After a hiatus, the band experienced a revitalization in 2016 when David joined forces with Paul to complete the group's lineup, injecting new energy and creativity into their sound. The talented members of i include: Al Granados: A charismatic frontman whose vocals carry raw emotion and captivating storytelling. Paul Lerma: A skilled guitarist whose riffs and melodies intertwine seamlessly, adding depth and texture to the band's music. Paul Reyes: A versatile bassist who lays down solid grooves, anchoring the songs with a powerful low end. David Contreras: A dynamic drummer who drives the band's rhythm with precision and intensity, propelling their sound forward. Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of artists such as Black Sabbath, Pink Floyd, and Marcel Duchamp, i has crafted a unique sonic identity that incorporates elements of grunge, a genre that dominated the '90s music scene. Their music carries a nostalgic essence reminiscent of the raw and introspective sound that characterized the era, combined with their own artistic sensibilities and contemporary influences. i is known for their introspective and thought-provoking lyrics, exploring themes of personal struggle, introspection, and social commentary. Their songs resonate with authenticity, capturing the essence of the human experience and inviting listeners to connect on a deeper level. Driven by their unwavering passion for music, I continues to write, record, and perform their original compositions, pushing boundaries and evolving their sound with each new creation. Their live performances are a testament to their dedication and musicianship, as they deliver powerful and engaging shows that leave audiences captivated and craving more. In a world where music is constantly evolving, I stands out as a band that pays homage to the '90s grunge era while infusing their own unique artistry, forging a path that is distinctly their own. With their heartfelt lyrics, infectious melodies, and captivating performances, I has earned a devoted following and continues to leave a lasting impact on the rock music landscape.
i band is:
Al Granados - Vocals
Paul Lerma - Guitar
Paul Reyes - Bass
David Contreras - Drums
