The Shondes is a punk and pop rock band based out of Brooklyn that attempts to combine intense, visceral songwriting with traditional Jewish music. Members Louisa Rachel Solomon and Elijah Oberman formed the group in 2006 by finding additional members who'd help contribute to the violin-infused punk and politically-minded lyrical content it's since come to be known for. Solomon is a fervid front-woman with a voice that channels the wavering style minted by the riot grrrl bands of the 1990s, and her blunt lyrics about her views on the Palestinian/Israeli conflict frame her as an outspoken songwriter who's unafraid to speak her mind. Despite the possible audience polarization her lyrics may induce, however, The Shondes' overall sound is wrapped up in a glossy, well-produced package that should appeal to both fans of punk and radio-friendly pop rock.
