LAUGHING CATS - Jerk

Laughing Cats "Jerk"

Laughing Cats, the new music duo formed by Lauren Schiff and Tony Fredianelli, brings a fresh sound that fuses their diverse backgrounds and love for storytelling. Tony, with his musical roots, is no stranger to the industry. As a 13-year member of the multi-platinum band Third Eye Blind, he made his mark on iconic tracks like “Motorcycle Drive By” and “Semi Charmed Life.” His influence continues to resonate, even as he formed XEB with fellow bandmates. Lauren Schiff, on the other hand, transitioned from stage acting in New York City to embracing her true passion for music. Her love for songwriting flourished when she met Tony, and together, they created Laughing Cats, a duo that blends fresh creativity with familiar sonic influences.

The inspirations behind Laughing Cats' sound are rooted in the pop and rock music of the 60s and 80s, with an emphasis on the legendary Beatles. The 1960s, with its abundance of artistic ingenuity, is a constant touchstone for Tony and Lauren, along with groups like Lou Reed & The Velvet Underground, The Zombies, The Kinks, and The Troggs. The 80s, which brought the world a sonic revolution, also play a huge role in shaping their music. UK new wave artists like New Order, Tears for Fears, and Depeche Mode also leave their mark on the duo’s sound. Their debut album Funny Money promises to be a genre-defying journey, paying homage to the past while carving out a future that is uniquely their own.

Their latest single, “Jerk,” encapsulates the duo’s ability to connect deeply with the human experience. Written by Lauren, the song is inspired by a real-life observation of a male acquaintance who struggled to reconcile with his wife. “Jerk” is a reflection on self-awareness, personal growth, and the difficult journey toward bettering oneself for the sake of meaningful relationships. Initially envisioned as a track sung by Matt Shultz of Cage the Elephant, the song captures a universal theme of emotional evolution that we all face at some point.

"Jerk" is the second track from Laughing Cats’ debut album Funny Money, following the success of their debut single “GYB.” This “waterfall release” strategy, with tracks dropping every 4-6 weeks, allows fans to gradually immerse themselves in the duo's unique sound and storytelling style. As Laughing Cats continue to captivate audiences with their heartfelt music and engaging lyrics, “Jerk” is a testament to their ability to craft songs that are both personal and universally relatable.