Power Hug by Trash Pals: EP Review
Photo credit: Artist EPK
Power Hug by Trash Pals is like the musical equivalent of a heart-to-heart with your closest friend—comforting, genuine, and just what you didn’t know you needed. Across six tracks, the EP dives into love in all its messy, beautiful forms: self-love, friendship, and romance, but with a refreshing sincerity that makes it stand out. Each song has its own story to tell, yet they come together to create a cozy, feel-good space where love is celebrated as something worth holding onto, even when it’s tough.
What’s great about Power Hug is how personal it feels. Trash Pals—made up of Conor Rayne and Gabe Schnider—aren’t just making music; they’re sharing a piece of their 15-year friendship that started when they met at summer camp as homesick kids. That deep bond translates into the music, which feels like it’s made with trust, joy, and a lot of heart. There’s something so refreshing about a project that cuts through the cynicism and noise of today’s fast-paced world to offer something pure and real. It’s the kind of music that reminds you to slow down and just feel.
Sonically, the duo has a killer balance going on. The foundation is indie rock, but they sprinkle in bits of jazz and pop that give the EP a rich, layered vibe. Conor Rayne, who’s worked with Brasstracks, Chance the Rapper, and Mark Ronson, brings in those groove-heavy, polished beats, while Gabe Schnider’s background playing alongside Wynton Marsalis and Jon Batiste adds a level of sophistication to the mix. Together, they’ve crafted a sound that’s thoughtful but never overworked—songs that feel upbeat and light but carry an emotional weight that sticks with you.
Photo credit: Artist EPK
The themes in Power Hug are relatable and uplifting. One moment, the EP might make you reflect on loss or personal growth, and the next, it’ll push you to dance like nobody’s watching. It doesn’t sugarcoat the complexities of love or life, but instead celebrates them—showing that even in the messiness, there’s magic. The songs encourage you to embrace it all, whether that means crying it out or just soaking up the good times.
In a world that often feels too detached and chaotic, Power Hug feels like a gentle reminder to take a breath and appreciate what matters—yourself, your relationships, and those little moments that make life worth living. Trash Pals have delivered something sincere, warm, and timeless, proving that sometimes the simplest things, like a hug or a great song, are exactly what we need. If this EP is any sign of what’s to come, Trash Pals are definitely a duo to keep your eye on.
‘Power hug’ is out now on all major streaming platforms
Follow Trash Pals - Instagram | Tiktok | Soundcloud
Listen to Trash Pals and similar artists on our Spotify Playlist - ‘New Music Spotlight - Indie & Alternative’
