Review: “Zeroesandones” by Inherent Vice
Punk rock has been fading from popularity for the last few decades, but the genre is more important than ever in these divisive and frustrating times. With their newest release, Inherent Vice tells the raw and real stories that punks have been telling for decades, this time from a modern perspective.
Zeroesandones is the second EP from Middleport punk band, Inherent Vice. These guys are proving that punk isn’t dead, especially with their newest release. This EP is their first release since 2019, and they’ve proven that they haven’t lost their touch. Each track is carefully crafted, with classic punk themes mixed in with their own modern flair. Unfortunately, the band has recently announced that they will be breaking up after over 6 years together, but their last release together is one that will be cherished by the band and fans alike. This really embodies “leaving things on a high note.”
Track Review
The opening track, “Camera Shy,” is a great introduction to the band and what to expect from the rest of the EP. While still having that good old-fashioned punk feel, the driving tempo paired with the lyrics makes for an all-around good listening experience. Whether you’re just looking to throw on a song to have as background noise or something to really analyze and feel, this song can do it all.
“Where’s The Secret?” contains the title of the EP within its chorus, which is telling of its importance to the overall theme of the work. This track goes in depth into the themes that the band was looking to explore: insignificance, the human experience, and uncertainty. This one really goes to show that even adults don’t know what they’re doing, and that uncertainty will always be scary and frustrating, to a degree.
Next comes “Perfect,” which was my favorite track out of the four. Parts of the vocal part sound almost like rapping, which gave the song a Beastie Boys vibe. Punk rock and rap will always mix, in my opinion. As a plus, the drums and guitar on this track are phenomenal.
The EP ends with “It’s Over” (fitting), which focuses on addiction and how it affects the people in an addict’s life. This perspective fits perfectly with the unique mix of anger and sadness that often characterizes punk music. The lyrics conveyed so much honesty and raw hurt that was truly moving, but didn’t feel so sad that the song left you feeling melancholy at the end of the EP.
Verdict
This EP reminded me of what I love about punk rock. It follows the framework for classic punk music while still adding in its own unique flavors, like the rapping on “Perfect.” It really speaks for itself through the great production and well-crafted lyrics.
While it may not have been my favorite project I’ve reviewed, I still have to give major props to Inherent Vice for this release, as it had a lot of aspects that deem it a success in my book. As their last release, it stands out as a strong work to solidify their image as a band.
