Brace Yourself Embody the Easycore Spirit on Debut EP ‘Last july’
Arizona pop-punk band Brace Yourself are bringing easycore back to life with their debut EP ‘Last July’, released independently in late 2020. Following in the footsteps of A Day to Remember, Four Year Strong, and the likes, Brace Yourself put a fresh spin on the familiar genre. Being very new to the scene, the band has received tremendous support to this point, showcasing the strength of their debut material.
Brace Yourself combines the emotive lyricism of early 2000’s emo classics with the bouncy instrumentation of 2010’s easycore throughout ‘Last July’, leaving the EP dripping with nostalgia. “We have many influences, such as I Prevail, Green Day, A Day to Remember, MGK, Paramore, and many more,” says guitarist Aidan Roberson. These influences are particularly apparent on the title track “Last July”. With a chorus as “I haven’t smiled since / Last July / I know my flaws / My friends / Say I’m missing something / But all my tears are dry,” it’s easy to see how this band would fit alongside the 2010’s pop punk movement, and when paired with the chuggy riffs and pounding percussion, Brace Yourself embody that trend completely.
As a cohesive project, the subject matter throughout ‘Last July’ also resonates very well with the scene - detailing the struggles of growing up and looking back on one’s journey in life. “Last July is about the growing pains we as people experience (heart break, loss, confusion, depression),” says vocalist Xander Mason “Reflecting on transformative experiences in our lives, we can look back and see a new side of what we went through. This EP is meant to connect with anyone who feels alone going through any of this.” While these topics are not necessarily revolutionary within the genre, they are immediately relatable to a wide range of people and experiences, which is likely why this band has been able to connect with so many people in such a short time.
‘Last July’ is an impressive foundational release for this rising pop-punk band, and they couldn’t be more thankful for the response from fans. “It really inspires us to write more when we get fans messaging us on how much the songs help them through hard times and inspires them to pick up an instrument.” Xander continues, “We are just a band starting out in Tucson, AZ and the amount of support has been amazing and we truly appreciate it.” Drummer Braden Matsuzawa adds, “Overall, I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished and excited to keep creating. Our blend of music styles can make some killer hooks that’ll knock you out of your seat.”
Be sure to check out the official music video for “Last July” below and if you like what you hear, there’s plenty more to enjoy on the rest of the EP. Keep up to date with Brace Yourself on all social media platforms, and watch them gain even more success throughout 2021!