Some Gifts have never shied away from speaking their minds. Their fourth LP, Misguided, out on October 4th, sharpens the trio’s serrated sound and dives into the chaotic world of modern-day America with more force than ever before. Vic Lazar, the band’s frontman, tackles the unraveling socio-political fabric of the country through blunt, clear-eyed lyrics, while maintaining an everyman ethos that resonates.
The album’s lead track, “Sympathy for the Free Market,” encapsulates this perfectly. Taking a jab at the billionaire class—with its space-race vanity projects and obscene accumulation of wealth—Vic’s biting lines are delivered over Dinosaur Jr.-inspired guitar crunch and furious drumming.
It’s a thought provoking listen for anyone who feels disillusioned by the widening gap between the rich and everyone else. “I lose a paycheck and I’m homeless,” Vic sings. “Elon Musk burns away three billion dollars and nothing changes for him.” It’s a stark contrast between the everyday struggle and the untouchable elite.
Some Gifts formed back in 2013, and the chemistry between Vic, bassist Mike Jung, and drummer Steve Aguilera has only grown deeper over the years. Through marriages, kids, and shifting day jobs, they’ve kept their weekly meetups at a makeshift studio on the outskirts of Los Angeles alive.
It’s this unshakeable dedication that’s infused every note of Misguided, recorded in just four days at San Diego’s Singing Serpent Studios with Ben Moore (known for his work with Hot Snakes and METZ).
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Where previous albums had moments of reflection, Misguided is more immediate, more urgent. Take “Psychic Tension”—the title alone evokes unease, and the song’s angular riffing and jagged rhythm feel like Fugazi with a twist. Vic’s vocals ride on top, the edge in his voice delivering a mix of frustration and despair. It’s an unsettling anthem that digs deep into the anxieties of modern existence.
And then there’s the title track, “Misguided,” which brings some of the album’s heaviest lyrical moments. The rhythm section, particularly Mike’s thick basslines, carries the track into almost hypnotic territory, while Vic’s guitar dances with subtle Middle Eastern influences. The song explores the rise of right-wing misinformation and how it fuels violence. Vic doesn’t hold back: “Those talking heads you trust have all misled you/You were so willing to be dispatched.” It’s a gaslit world, and Some Gifts are here to burn it all down.
The band has found a natural home with Bakersfield-based Killer Kern Records. After years of self-releases, their alignment with the indie label marks a new chapter for Some Gifts. They’ve been regulars at the label’s DIY music festival, and Misguided will be their first vinyl release, a milestone for the band as they continue to grow their presence in the underground scene.
In a world where it feels like we’re drowning in false information, Misguided is a pleasant punch in the gut. It’s sharp, raw, and doesn’t pull any punches. The band’s DIY roots are intact, but there’s something undeniably refined about their sound.
As for their influences and local scene, Some Gifts aren’t shy about paying tribute. Here’s their special list of recommended under the radar artists worth a good check.
Vic: Pretty Flowers are an LA quartet that Some Gifts has had the pleasure to do both local and out of town shows with over the past few years.
Noah Green is easily one of my favorite local songwriters and PF’s penchant for thoughtful power pop and well crafted hooks make them one of our favorite acts.
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They’ve released two incredible full lengths, both worth checking out, especially if killer songs are your thing.
Mike: Lots of great bands from Southern California to check out! Most recently for me, Jr. Juggernaut from Los Angeles.
Heartfelt rock & roll with great guitar hooks.
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I also really like seeing Contranistas perform.
They’re a two-person instrumental post-rock band from Bakersfield, and Dax is really interesting to watch play live with his double neck guitar.
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Steve: The first time I saw Still Missing I had a big grin on my face.
Bands reminiscent of those on SST records streamed through my mind – Saint Vitus, or even Gang Green.
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Sometimes it takes a few listens to understand a band. With Still Missing, the impression is immediate. They’re in your face with driving guitars and frantic drums. No frills, straightforward & bleeding-heart honest. Catch these guys before a show and you’ll often see them skating in the parking lot. Definitely a band worth a listen.
