Words by: Jack Humphrey

Blazing on to the prog-rock scene with a high-powered new single, the dynamic prog-rock foursome Foxera is swinging for the fences with their new jam “Picture Perfect.” A seething lament for the insensitivity and detached nature of culture in 2021 — especially coming out of lockdown and isolation — this fist-pumping rock anthem introduces the band’s new frontman Michael Swank, whose excitable stage presence and convictive delivery bring a new level of gravitas to the band. “Picture Perfect” puts his rangy vocal prowess on full display for the band’s growing fanbase. Bursting with urgency and frustration at the coldness and superficiality that consumes so many living in the digital age — the band remarked:

“’Picture Perfect’ is a reflection on the disconnect between reality and social media as well as longing for simpler times. Modernity brings complex dynamics to our lives which can feel isolating and make the fear of missing out more prevalent than ever – it’s important to step back and enjoy living in the moment.”

Produced by Taylor Larson [Asking Alexandria, The Dangerous Summer], he brought forth his masterful studio skillset learned over the years that shine with the song’s intricate guitar layering, topped with a high-octane rhythm section. Overdubbed vocal harmonies make this track so much more than a haphazard outburst of hard-rock vitriol. There’s a pop-ness to it that makes “Picture Perfect” just palatable to pop-punk and pop-rock listeners as it does the hard-rock crowd that might’ve followed Michael Swank from his days in the metalcore outfit Myka, Relocate. 

Foxera is still pretty fresh on the scene, but has already has already planted their flag as a bold, exciting new voice in the rock world. Formed by brothers Erick & Michael Cuellar and guitarist Julian Witt, the group made waves alongside Dance Gavin Dance frontman Tilian with the head-banging rocker “Memories.” Quickly garnering hundreds of thousands of streams, Foxera knew that they were onto something special, leading them to start the search for a permanent lead vocalist. After auditioning countless vocalists, the band finally connected with Michael Swank, whose experience in the hard-rock/prog-rock space helped him fit into Foxera with total ease, complementing the group’s penchant for catchy, melodic hooks as well as raw, unfettered guitar riffage. “Picture Perfect” is definitely an exciting start to the new Foxera saga. As Swank and the band prepare to hit the stage for the first time this fall, we’re definitely looking forward to all the rock and roll goodness they’ve got in store.