Music Review: WSTR, SKRWD

By Tyler Hodg

Pop-punk is a genre of music that is probably past its glory days of popularity, yet to those who grew up with it, it remains a familiar and comforting sound. Newcomers WSTR (Waster) bravely fly pop-punk’s often forgotten flag with their debut EP, SKRWD, and give a unique reason to revisit the sounds of yesteryear. Although WSTR attempts nothing revolutionary with their first release, they have still created something that is sure to stir up nostalgic feelings and counteract the lack of edge in your playlist.

The Liverpool band has gone on record to state that bands like Blink 182, Sum 41, and New Found Glory served as influences for their sound. Despite that statement, pinpointing a specific band to compare WSTR to would be impossible, as they truly are a group of their own. What they do share with those other bands, however, is a similar attitude: one of angst. While not as humorous as the aforementioned groups, WSTR shares the similar feeling of revolt.

SKRWD opens with “South Drive,” an optimistic, yet aggressive-sounding track. It embodies a similar tone as the rest of the songs on the EP, but stands out as the most melodic of the bunch. All of the proceeding songs, including “Fair Weather” and “Graveyard Shift,” continue to flaunt a high-energy feel. WSTR shows a more playful side with “Brainsick,” while “Ain’t Great” features a hooky chorus and “Devils ’N Demons” takes on a slightly darker sound.

With only six songs, SKRWD is over before you know it. The band could have expanded on their influences and included a more diverse group of songs for the EP,, but what has been presented on the album is still of high quality. From those looking to revisit sounds of their past to those who never grew up with the pop-punk genre, WSTR’s SKRWD is a great compilation regardless of personal musical history.

SKRWD was released by No Sleep Records on September 4.