Seattle pop-punk outfit College Radio have dropped their infectious new single “Growing Pains” via Third String Records, and it sounds as if Wheatus hired Travis Barker as their drummer - it’s classic high-energy pop-punk with a melodramatic edge. “Growing Pains” is the follow-up to the band’s 2020 EP I Used To Get Messed Up, which Alternative Press gave “excellent” praise.

Citing the likes of Blink-182, NOFX, and Green Day as their musical inspirations, it’s easy to pick up these early 2000’s pop-punk influences throughout “Growing Pains”. Filled with driving percussion and an explosive chorus, this band would fit well alongside the bands of the typical Pop Punk Powerhouses-style playlists you might find on Spotify. Lyrically, “Growing Pains” is an emotional battle between friendship and loss, without compromising the upbeat nature of the sound. “Growing Pains” is very unique,” says the band. “It’s more about doing dumb stuff with your friends; almost like a Stand By Me vibe. But still very upbeat as we do. Also battling the loss of one of those friends.”

College Radio debuted the new track as part of a livestream concert series, hosted by Hemp Films, and is still available to watch. “Growing Pains” is just the beginning of what to expect from College Radio in 2021. “In terms of future plans, we have a couple more livestreams planned, which are gonna be rad!” They continue, “We also have a couple more singles that are going to be released over the next couple months as well!! Getting ready to play shows again and hitting the road!”

Check out the official lyric video for “Growing Pains” below!