For nearly two decades, the stalwart presence of SPECTRES has loomed large over the post-punk landscape, a steadfast beacon for those pushing for the genre’s revival and reinvention. It was in 2005, amidst a resurgence of DIY punk’s raw energy and ethos, that the band’s frontman Brian Gustavson, a visionary with a voice, embarked on a mission to infuse the scene with a new vigor. Merging the defiant spirit of anarcho-punk with the icy, detached rhythms that defined the 1980s’ post-punk and deathrock, SPECTRES was born.
As time marched on, SPECTRES’ sonic palette broadened, embracing the kaleidoscopic hues of new wave, synth, and dream pop. Yet, they remained anchored to their anarcho-punk foundations with unyielding resolve. Their music, a chameleon-like tapestry, oscillates between the ethereal allure of pop-infused melodies and a piercing call to consciousness, urging listeners to confront the dystopian realities of our times. The track Chain Reaction from their forthcoming album Presence is a testament to this duality, harking back to the band’s punk origins while echoing their evolution.
The fusion of diverse influences creates an intriguing contrast in Chain Reaction, merging 80’s pop vibes with lyrics that delve into the disconnection and skepticism of contemporary life, alongside a quest for optimism in an ever-more daunting world. If you’re a fan of The Chameleons, The Damned, or Play Dead, this track is sure to ensnare you from head to toe.
“There are open nods to the Southern California sounds of Rikk Agnew and the Adolescents’ darker material, combined with Spectres classic post-punk aesthetic,” vocalist Brian Gustavson says, “The track wouldn’t sound out of place on a 1980s Thrasher video compilation.”
Listen to “Chain Reaction” below:
SPECTRES’ live shows are an extension of their punk roots, delivering an intense, confrontational experience that resonates with the earnestness, urgency, and alienation inherent in their music. Since joining Artoffact Records in 2018, the band has continued to evolve, promising more groundbreaking music under their new banner.
Presence will drop on March 15th, 2024, via Toronto’s Artoffact Records. Pre-order Presence here.
You can also listen to the song here on Spotify and Apple Music.
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