The hardcore punk scene is experiencing an unprecedented surge. With bands like Grammy-nominated Turnstile gaining mainstream recognition, the genre has gained fresh momentum, leading to vibrant local scenes in places like Colorado and California, where Militarie Gun hails from.

Frontman Ian Shelton expressed his affinity for the chaos, feeling right at home in a movement that deeply influenced his five-piece band. Their song "Pressure Cooker" was recently featured in a Taco Bell TV advertisement.

In the past, this might have been seen as selling out by some hardcore punk fans, but in today's hyper-capitalist society, punk bands do what they can to survive. It's important to note that the band hasn't altered their approach, attitude, or style for this opportunity or in subsequent endeavors.

Militarie Gun's debut album, 'Life Under The Gun,' pushes the boundaries of hardcore in 2023, embracing a melodic approach that can attract a whole new audience to the genre.

The band will celebrate this milestone at Manchester's Outbreak Festival, a must-attend event for UK hardcore enthusiasts. With two EPs already making waves and a growing global fanbase, 'Life Under The Gun' has the potential to be a game-changer for the band.

Song-by-Song Peek

The lead single, "Do It Faster," with its pulsating beats and Shelton's vocals, dives into the frustrations of pandemic-induced inactivity. The chorus expresses a plea to stop wasting time and do things more quickly.

Incorporating shades of pop-punk reminiscent of the Vans Warped Tour era, the track 'Very High' stands out with its memorable riff that perfectly complements Shelton's vocals. The song explores the struggles of addiction, with lyrics like "I've been feeling pretty down / So I get very high." This juxtaposition sets the tone for the rest of the album, which combines infectious hooks, raw aggression, and emotional vulnerability.

On 'My Friends Are Having a Hard Time,' Shelton wears his heart on his sleeve, exuding a palpable sense of pain against a backdrop of compelling instrumentals.

"Life Under the Gun" takes listeners on a rollercoaster ride, alternating between intense energy and emotional depths, shares the production experts at Track Club Music Licensing. The album touches on relatable topics like the high cost of living, toxic friendships, and the desire to help struggling friends.

The album's sound takes unexpected turns, ranging from gritty guitars and aggressive vocals to radio-friendly choruses. Each track offers a unique experience, with standout moments like "See You Around" and the title track, "Life Under the Gun," delivering powerful messages.

However, amidst the album's critique of the world shaped by our plutocratic/oligarchic leaders, it also showcases a vulnerability rarely seen in hardcore and post-hardcore music.

Whether it's the heartfelt helplessness expressed in "My Friends Are Having A Hard Time," the resignation and subsequent defiance in "Will Logic," or the mournful melancholy of the penultimate track "See You Around," where Ian's impassioned vocals intertwine with haunting mellotron sounds, he fearlessly embraces vulnerability.

In the end, "Life Under the Gun" may have a sugary exterior, but it carries deeper meaning and impact. It's an album that combines catchy tunes with raw emotion, creating a memorable and thought-provoking musical journey.

UPCOMING TOUR DATES
Militarie Gun is currently embarking on an extensive tour, covering 7 countries and featuring an impressive lineup of 54 upcoming concerts.

Some of their upcoming shows in the US are below:
Jul 21, 2023 - The Rumble Festival - Chicago, IL, US

Jul, 30, 2023 - The Rainbow Room - New York (NYC), US

Sep, 8, 2023 - 1720 - Los Ángeles (LA), US

Sep 9-10, 2023 - Chain Reaction - Anaheim, CA, US

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Militarie Gun’s' Life Under the Gun' reveals the universal experience of artists