Words by: Sarah Aurora

Australian pop-punk band Stuck Out has just released their second EP Lie Through Your Teeth. Their sophomore release is a pointed commentary about the lies we tell and the consequences that come with them. The four tracks are reminiscent of the classic pop-punk sound made popular by bands like As It Is and The Story So Far with lyrics that are sure to resonate with their audience.

The lead track — and most recent single — “Inverse” is a pop-punk anthem that dialogues the self-destructive behavior and subsequent lies we tell ourselves to lessen the blow. Frontman, Josh Walker, referenced his own past behavior when writing the track stating, “this song voices the struggle between my own self awareness and blissful ignorance.” The opening track is the quintessential pop-punk headbanger with a chaotic drum beat and screaming vocals — the perfect song for a Van’s Warped Tour [RIP] set. Along with the release of the single came an orange-tinted music video featuring the band. The video is a stitching together of scenes with Walker singing directly to the camera as he cradles a beer bottle. The classic chaotic video paired with an equally chaotic track are a great way to start of the EP.

“False Promises” follows, pumping through your veins as another upbeat track masked with darker tones. Walker’s deeper vocals are complimented by a whining guitar line and wailing harmonies. While “Inverse” took on our own self-destruction, “False Promises” looks at the consequences of lies in a relationship. Yet all cannot be said as “False Promises” bleeds right into the next track, “Hollow”. While slower in tempo, “Hollow” still presents with the same dark undertones as it tells an alternative view of mistruths in relationships. With lyrics like, “I’m addicted to your lies/Come and look me in the eyes/Tell me everything’s okay”, “Hollow” details the whirlwind of emotions attached to a toxic relationship. The repetitive lyrics and driving guitar line aid in the depiction of this whirlwind, tornado-like relationship.

The EP closes out with its lead single, “Mindless.” Frontwoman of Yours Truly, Mikaila Delgado, lends her gravely, powerful vocals to this track. Her and Walker’s vocals perfectly compliment each other while they are backed by wailing guitar riffs and an infectious drum beat. About the meaning of the song Walker stated, “This song is based around conversations I’ve had with people close to me regarding racism, sexism and a range of humanitarian issues. Mindless is about calling your friends out for their shitty comments and rebuking the excuses they use to justify the vitriol that comes out of their mouth. Everyone has a choice to either speak up against injustice or let it pass without reply.” The elongated break-down at the end makes this track a perfect end to the EP.

Stuck Out is everything you could want out of a pop-punk band- heartfelt lyrics, intense vocals, and the feel of rebellion. Every track from Lie Through Your Teeth has the potential to rally a concert crowd and throw anyone back into their punk phase. It’s a stand out EP from an incredibly talented band.

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