April 02, 2024
Photo: Joel Gelin
By Ace Hartmann | Racketeer Broadcast Association |
So Cal. Punk Band Debut 'The Breaks' to Unveil ‘Small Victories’
Southern California's vibrant punk scene is buzzing with anticipation as CHASER, the melodic punk band hailing from the heart of the region, has just dropped their first single and accompanying music video titled “The Breaks”. This release is the initial taste of their much-awaited album, ‘Small Victories’, set to hit the shelves on June 28 via SBÄM Records & Double Helix Records.
Produced by the seasoned Cameron Webb, known for his work with iconic bands like NOFX, Social Distortion, and Pennywise, “The Breaks” offers a spirited tempo coupled with infectious melodies that are bound to linger in listeners' minds. With lyrics like "Well, that’s the breaks…we’re all one mistake away," the song serves as a reminder that life doesn't always follow our plans, but resilience in the face of adversity can change our fortunes. It's a punk anthem infused with hope, urging listeners to persevere despite the inevitable setbacks.
CHASER, comprising Mike LeDonne on vocals, Jesse Stopnitzky on bass/vocals, Bill Hockmuth on guitar, and Davey Guy on drums, embodies the quintessential SoCal punk ethos—passionate, energetic, and radiating positivity. Their performances, brimming with infectious energy and sincerity, consistently leave audiences yearning for more. Having toured internationally for the past five years, gracing the stages of major punk festivals across Europe and Canada, CHASER has earned a reputation for delivering electrifying live shows, and securing coveted main stage slots.
The forthcoming album, ‘Small Victories’, holds profound significance for the band. According to them, it's an ode to recognizing and celebrating the little triumphs amidst life's challenges. The album cover, illustrated by Sebas Theriault of Sterio Design, portrays tumultuous seas symbolizing the unpredictable nature of existence. Through the highs and lows, CHASER reminds us that we're all captains of our own ships, steering towards stability amidst life's tempests.
Of the new single, the band says,
"At some point in our lives, we have all felt vulnerable, battled insecurities, and have been in that dark place inside our heads; fearing what tomorrow might bring. “The Breaks” is based on the old idiom, “That’s the breaks, kid”, meaning that’s just how it goes, that’s your fate, and to just accept and play the hand you’ve been dealt. This is a song for anyone who’s ever felt that they couldn’t let their guard down in fear that they’ll end up getting hurt. Or anyone who has found it difficult to look at pictures from a simpler time when life was easier and carefree. But that’s life. We need to ride the highs and lows, play the long game, and realize we’re all one mistake away from drastically changing the outcome of our lives. We can’t go back to the way life was before, but we can choose how to live it now and make the final call. That’s the breaks.
The album title, “Small Victories,” holds a special meaning for us that we felt compelled to share with our listeners. In life, we are continuously presented with challenges, each to our own degree. Managing our personal struggles, we tend to beat ourselves up when the outcome is not as perfect as we envisioned. Instead, let’s learn to appreciate and revel in the small wins that occur on a daily basis. They each carry weight and over time, have the potential to add up to greatness!"
“The Breaks” serves as the inaugural single from ‘Small Victories’, which is slated for release on June 28 via SBÄM Records and Double Helix Records. It's a testament to CHASER's unwavering commitment to spreading optimism through their music and resonating with audiences on a profound level.
As the countdown to the album release begins, CHASER enthusiasts and punk aficionados alike eagerly await to embark on a musical journey brimming with infectious melodies, anthemic choruses, and a resolute message of resilience in the face of adversity.
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