ToMiK – “Rücken an der Wand” – sleek, catchy, and enjoyably urgent!

Tom Spieß and Mike Pape form the rock duo ToMiK from Halle (Saale), which launched officially in 2016. The two have been making music for many years, both in cover bands, and developing their own repertoires. They celebrated their first successes as a duo with the EP “Geld oder Liebe” (2018), and singles like “Sturm am Horizont”, “Rücken an der Wand” and “Der Weg”. They are currently working to release their first album during this year.

The single, “Rücken an der Wand”, roughly translates into “Back against the wall”, and sees ToMiK deliver an upbeat rocker that shifts between a danceable delight, and searing razor-blade guitar riffs that refuse to be crushed. On top, the soaring vocal harmonies drive the adrenaline count through the roof. At its best, the track is sleek, catchy, and enjoyably urgent – the sound of a band not burdened by the search for relevance or major label pressure.

A sense of intelligent wit and knowing manipulation of modern alt-rock imagery make them much, much more interesting than many of their peers. ToMiK’s blend of rock n’ roll quirk and European cool is masterful in its own right. They can lay on a sharp, alternative rock style, while shaping it to sound like solid, tightly wound pop. Their status as a duo can boast all in one package, making “Rücken an der Wand” sound full of character, craft and flair all at once.

They utilize newer musical production technology, but do not overly rely on or abuse it, skillfully blending the guitars and the rhythm section. Lyrically, ToMiK disguises deeper, profound and sometimes existential messages in what may sound like simple rock tunes. The duo, however, are truly in their element with bolder, upbeat songs, and have a field day with “Rücken an der Wand”. The foot-stomping beat grabs you by the throat and won’t let go the entire time.

The rambunctious, celebratory yell of the chorus is unquestionably worth tuning in to. There’s no doubt that ardent fans of catchy singalong motifs will be bowled over by this driving sound, and after several listens it’s simply impossible to resist the shoulder-shimmying, head-shaking and hands-aloft vibe which ignites itself in the listener. The musical element of this single is strong, and the main attraction for returning listens.

Working alongside the soaring melody, is a combination of compellingly danceable rock music and self-aware lyrics. Those two factors – danceable rock and a slightly cheeky attitude – are present throughout “Rücken an der Wand”, with ToMiK playing up their specific strengths regarding their particular blend of alternative and indie rock.

The joy of listening to ToMiK comes from the spirit and attitude behind the music, delivered with palpable energy by Tom Spieß (guitar, the rhythm section, and bass) and Mike Pape (vocals). It’s a kind of joy that easily inspires you to get your body moving.

The taut arrangement of “Rücken an der Wand”, thrives as the duo indulge their sense of rhythmic drive. Everything Tom and Mike do on this track, is deliberate and delicious. “Rücken an der Wand” is a melodic and rhythmic fusion that is a pleasure to listen to!