Desert Sharks - "Medusa"

Could Desert Sharks' latest single, “Medusa,” be about killer… jellyfish? The dark second single from their new EP, The Tower, opens with a reference to “the bottom of the ocean.” It’s here where jellyfish in the medusa phase of their lifecycle dwell in the deep, dark depths of the sea, stalking prey like fish larvae and plankton.

That ocean reference is likely just a coincidence and my sea creature extrapolation is my own, fun interpretation, but the marine biologist who coined this phase of the jellyfish’s life no doubt had the infamous mythological goddess in mind. Medusa was a fearless, snake-haired deity with the power to turn anyone in her crosshairs into stone. Throughout history, she’s gotten a bad rap, but recently, her legacy has received a much-needed reassessment. On “Medusa,” Desert Sharks view the much-maligned Greek goddess in a new, empowering light. Frontperson Stephanie Gunther shared the following about the song’s inspiration:

Medusa is this Greek mythological icon of power, sensuality, and strength in the face of assault and trauma. Growing up, I only saw her referred to as a monster - something to be feared and destroyed. Now I see her as this symbol of feminism and fortitude that not even death can diminish. I wanted to write a song about her experience told from her own perspective. I suppose it's an anthem of feminine rage and reclamation of power.

Sonically, “Medusa” is sludgey and dour, resting on the strength of its heavy-sounding low ends. Try to imagine what would soundtrack Medusa descending from the heavens to avenge her decapitator, Perseus. I’ll help you out: it’s Desert Sharks’ “Medusa.”

Listen to “Medusa” below!

“Medusa” appears on the band’s brand new EP, The Tower, which is out now via Substitute Scene Records. You can purchase it on limited edition vinyl via Bandcamp.

Don’t miss Desert Sharks this Thursday, April 6th at Pet Shop in Jersey City with Sir Synthesis and LKFFCT. For more information, head to the event listing here on the site.