Introduction
Fast-rising Fife indie rockers Arienas are quickly carving out a name for themselves with their punchy guitar-driven sound and electric live shows. Known for combining bold hooks with raw rock ’n’ roll energy, the band have become a standout presence on the Scottish music scene, earning support slots alongside Kyle Falconer and Sergeant.
With a growing reputation for turning every venue into a full-throttle experience, Arienas now return with their latest release “Take the Money” which is the focus of todays review. Enjoy and let us know what you think in the comments section!
Review
From the moment Take the Money kicks in, you’re met with a hit of pure indie warmth. The opening guitar riff is expressive, confident, and refreshingly memorable. It’s the kind of riff that reminds you how important a strong opening can be, something indie bands occasionally overlook.
The main criticism comes early, with a tempo shift that feels like jumping from first gear straight into third, it’s effective but rushed. The transition could have benefitted from more patience. Sometimes it’s as much about the journey rather than purely racing to the destination.
Once the pace settles, the track really comes into its own. The drumming, which drives the tempo change, is excellent throughout. It’s tight, energetic, and consistent from start to finish.
Vocally, the song shines. There’s something compelling to me about Scottish vocals, and here they’re used to great effect. The tweaks in tone add depth, particularly in the chorus, which feels tailor-made for a festival crowd. I can imagine it now, arms around friends, sun setting, Pimm’s in hand. It’s catchy without being predictable, and that balance works well.
The bass deserves special mention. In indie rock it can often fade into the background or be missing entirely, but here it’s present, purposeful, and adds real weight to the track. The guitar solo, used as a bridge, is another highlight, a real moment of flair and breathing space, though placing it elsewhere could have helped introduce more lyrical variation. Lyrically, the track feels slightly one-paced, relying on similar phrasing and emotional tone. A little more contrast between verses and chorus could have elevated the track higher.
Final Summary
Take the Money is a confident and enjoyable release that showcases Arienas’ strengths — sharp guitar work, strong rhythm, and infectious energy. While a smoother tempo transition and greater lyrical variation could push the track to the next level, there’s no denying the band’s potential.
Arienas are absolutely one to keep an eye on, and if this single is anything to go by, they’re heading in the right direction. Be sure to check out Holy Grail and Aurelia to hear even more of what the Scottish indie band they’re capable of.
Fox Reviews Rock 
Let Fox Reviews Rock know what you think!