If you’ve ever wondered what pop-punk sounds like when it’s caught between the boredom of corporate America and the buzz of pregame anthems, Shower Beers has the answer with their latest single, Static City, USA. The NYC-based band isn’t here to rewrite the genre—no, they’ve stuck to the formula of catchy riffs and big choruses—but their latest release adds a slight twist: a rallying cry against the dull grind of post-pandemic work culture. Produced by Rob Freeman (Gym Class Heroes, Cobra Starship), the song channels punchy verses and a Midwest emo-inflected bridge that keeps things interesting.
At its core, Static City, USA is a song about frustration. Its lyrics capture the disconnect between pre-pandemic ideals and the post-pandemic reality, reflecting a broader sense of dissatisfaction that anyone who’s ever been stuck in a dead-end job can relate to. It’s not heavy-handed, but it hits with just enough force to make you think between the chants and hooks.
But let’s not get carried away. Shower Beers doesn’t pretend to be groundbreaking, nor do they need to. Their focus remains steadfast: write hooks that land hard, choruses that get the boys bopping, and make music that pairs well with a few drinks before a night out.
According to Sean DeKay, Static City, USA is a “brief detour” from their usual party jams—a detour that hits the sweet spot between energy and disillusionment. “There’s a Midwest emo bridge where we pretend to be musicians,” he adds, highlighting the tongue-in-cheek ethos that defines their sound.
Formed in 2022, the band—Chris Diorio (vocals/guitar), Sean DeKay (vocals/guitar), Joe Berson (bass), and Rob Abrams (drums)—has already released two EPs, with Miracle on 34th & 3rd being the most recent. It’s a collection of tracks produced with a slew of collaborators, from Australia’s SoSo to Boston’s We Demand Parachutes, showcasing their knack for building a network of fellow artists without relying on extensive touring or financial backing.
In fact, despite staying off the road, Shower Beers has managed to rack up over 200k streams—impressive for a band still finding its live-show legs.
Speaking of live shows, Static City, USA is set to make its live debut on October 6th at Heaven Can Wait in the East Village, marking a pivotal moment for the band’s newest members, DeKay and Berson.
Alongside the single’s release, they’ve highlighted 10 emerging pop-punk bands they’ve got their eye on—acts like FRND CRCL and Gold Steps, each offering something fresh to the melodious subgenre.
FRND CRCL
Came out with one of 2023’s best pop punk albums in “Suburban Dictionary.” They’re keeping punk rock trios alive.
lolitslea
Is on a hot streak with singles off her upcoming 2024 album. Also has cool hair.
Good Hangs
No-skip discography all about drinking too much and loud guitars. Our kinda music.
Old Neon
Their recent EP “Maybe This Is All There Is” is filled with hooks and thick production sound. They’re Pittsburgh’s hottest punk rock band.
Neutral Snap
Rumors have it they might be prepping to shock the alternative music scene with a killer EP tracked out of Audio Pilot Studios in Byram Township.
Rocket Pengwin
Another NYC-based punk rock artist with a focus on penguin-themed urban adventures.
Gold Steps
One of the hardest working bands out of the Midwest. Great riffs and great vocals.
We Demand Parachutes
Are showing their range with a slew of recent releases spanning influences and BPMs. The WDP boys stay hot.
Felicity
They know how to run a social media campaign. “The Weather” was one of my personal favorite tracks of Covid.
Rematch
Groovy guitar riffs paired with bouncy drums get the party going.
