Behold, the titans of nu-metal PAPA ROACH, who, after years of relentlessly assaulting our ears with their unique brand of angst, have graced us with a new single, “Braindead,” featuring Toby Morse of H2O 🙄. Because, let’s be honest, what this world really needed was more PAPA ROACH.
The music video, masterfully crafted by Jesse Davey and Ed Shiers (who I’m sure are very proud of their artistic contribution) and produced by Joanna DeLane, is described as “hard-hitting” and “high-octane.” In reality, it’s probably just the band locked up somewhere, desperately trying to escape their own musical legacy 🤣. I’m picturing lots of dramatic lighting and possibly some questionable fashion choices. The Last Resort? More like the last place anyone wants to be.
“Braindead,” we are told, is a “fierce anthem” that combines PAPA ROACH’s “signature intensity” (read: shouting) with Morse’s “raw punk energy” (read: slightly more aggressive shouting). The result? A “rebellious sonic explosion” that basically tells you not to waste your life 🤯. Groundbreaking stuff, guys. Really making us rethink our existence.
Jacoby Shaddix, the frontman who clearly peaked in 2000, says they wanted to create something “urgent, honest, and in your face.” Mission accomplished, I guess? I mean, it’s certainly a song. And it exists. He also claims bringing in Toby took it to the “next level.” Which, let’s be real, is a pretty low bar to clear.
Morse chimes in, saying he’s known Jacoby for over 20 years and is “very proud of him with his sobriety.” Because nothing screams “punk rock” like congratulating someone on staying sober 🤔. He also says PAPA ROACH lives by the “one life, one chance” motto. Which is ironic, considering how many chances they’ve had to fade into obscurity, yet they’re still here, bless their stubborn hearts.
Fresh off a sold-out U.K. tour (apparently, the Brits have a higher tolerance for this sort of thing), PAPA ROACH is gearing up for a new album 💿. Yes, you read that right. More music is on the way. “Braindead” is set to be included, so get ready for another dose of existential dread wrapped in a catchy chorus.
In a recent interview, Shaddix revealed they have “about five, six songs finished up.” He also promises to “get this one perfect before we drop it.” Oh, honey, it’s PAPA ROACH. “Perfect” isn’t exactly in their vocabulary. But hey, good luck with that. And don’t worry, they’ll drop new music throughout the year, because apparently, someone out there is clamoring for it. He also teases a new single coming in June, calling it a “fucking banger.” I’m sure it will be… for someone.
Jacoby also hinted at some guest appearances on the new album, refusing to reveal who they are because he wants to “surprise” us. Honestly, at this point, the only surprise would be if they managed to make a good song. But I’m not holding my breath.
Jacoby also bragged about releasing their previous album, “Ego Trip,” through their own label, New Noize Records. He claims it’s been a “good experience” and that they’ve “learned the insides of the record business.” Which probably means they now know how to exploit themselves even more effectively 🤑. He then proceeds to list their accomplishments, including four Number Ones on rock radio and breaking into the Top 5 and Top 10 at alternative. Because apparently, radio stations have questionable taste these days.
He also mentions getting a plaque from Spotify for a billion streams. A billion streams of what, exactly? Second-hand embarrassment? But hey, good for them. It’s always a “really good time to be in PAPA ROACH” when you’re raking in the dough, even if it’s for music that hasn’t been relevant since the early 2000s.
Last month, they released a music video for an acoustic version of “Even If It Kills Me.” Because what the world really needed was a softer, gentler version of PAPA ROACH 😴. The original single apparently reached No. 1 at U.S. Rock Radio, proving that the apocalypse is indeed upon us.
Shaddix then proceeded to overshare about the lyrical inspiration for “Even If It Kills Me,” which was apparently inspired by his son’s heartbreak. Because nothing says “relatable rock anthem” like a middle-aged man whining about his kid’s relationship problems. He also claims the song is about “walking through the fire” and “being there” for his son. Which is great, Dad. Now please stop writing songs about it.
In March, they released a “reimagined” version of “Even If It Kills Me.” Because apparently, they weren’t satisfied with ruining the song just once. This new version is described as a “fresh take” with a “melodic arrangement.” Which probably means they added some strings and auto-tuned Shaddix’s vocals to within an inch of their life.
PAPA ROACH, we are reminded, are two-time Grammy-nominated (for what, I’ll never know) and platinum-selling leaders in alternative hard rock music. They are also apparently “not unfamiliar with calling attention to mental health” since their hit single “Last Resort.” Which is ironic, considering their music probably drives people to the brink of insanity 🤪. Since then, they’ve created 10 studio albums, including “Ego Trip.” Because apparently, one ego trip wasn’t enough.
