Oakland’s States of Nature are back with another post-punk number from their soon-to-be released album Brighter Than Before. “Papered News” leans hard into its playfulness and is just begging for you to start pogo dancing along to its bouncy rhythm. The band worked with director Lauren R. M. to make a music video that feels baked in a summer haze, and it’s premiering today at Chorus.FM. Produced by Jack Shirley (Jeff Rosenstock, Deafheaven), Brighter than Before will be released on Friday, February 16th by Sell the Heart Records (US), Little Rocket Records (UK), and Epidemic Records (IT) and vinyl pre-orders are available now from all three labels. States of Nature released a compilation LP in 2021 titled Songs to Sway that is also available from Sell the Heart Records. “Papered News_” will be available on streaming platforms on Friday, February 2nd. _
Hailing from the vibrant and eclectic music scene of Oakland, California, States of Nature emerges as a post-punk force, blending raw rock n’ roll power with introspective lyricism. The band, formed from diverse influences, takes inspiration from sources both local and abroad to create a sound that resonates with both urgency and contemplation.
Injecting their own contemporary flair, States of Nature draws on sounds both familiar and new, implementing shouty yet memorable hooks, and strong counterpointed movement to inspire a rock n roll frenzy. Their captivating blend of danceable rhythms, poignant lyrics, and guitar focused swagger have earned their reputation as one of the Bay Area’s most refreshing and exciting acts.
On the heels of their well received EP collection “Songs to Sway”, States of Nature have complied their best work to date on their first LP “Brighter Than Before”. The album effortlessly flows between post-punk powerhouse tracks like the lead single “New Foundations” and upbeat singalongs like “Papered News” to create a record that captures the mood of the moment and invites you to participate in it. Lyrically speaking to a world in flux, the album highlights that when there’s so much uncertainty and sadness, you need the strength of those around you and belief in yourself, and a moment of fun to allow yourself to dream of a hopeful tomorrow.
Fun, yet introspective, grounded, yet free, “Brighter than Before ” displaying dramatic growth in songwriting, with hooks-a-plenty, and the right balance of fun and seriousness to keep the record interesting from beginning to end.
Keep an eye on this Oakland quartet as they reignite the spark of contemporary post-punk.
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