Toledo, Ohio’s Resignation has unveiled their heartfelt cover of Texas Is The Reason’s “Back and to the Left,” in an effort to support the charitable organization Hope For The Day.
The track premiered exclusively on The Alternative, and all proceeds from its sale will be donated to the cause. Resignation’s vocalist, Wes Allen, expressed the band’s deep admiration for Texas Is The Reason, citing their influential music as a blueprint for many within their respective genre. The collaboration with friends from Sparing, as well as the involvement of J. Robbins and Dan Coutant, added to the significance of the project while also raising awareness for Hope For The Day.
Reflecting on the musical landscape of the Midwest during its formative years, one can visualize the sea of creativity that swelled amidst fields and farmland, resonating in dark and hollow cities encircling the Great Lakes. It was an era where music became an outlet for the young, who found solace in cramped basements and unleashed their voices in VFW halls.
The influence of bands like Hüsker Dü and Squirrel Bait rippled through the region, captivating listeners with alternative melodies that defied mainstream radio.
Meanwhile, groups such as Falling Forward, Endpoint, and Split Lip (later known as Chamberlain) infused hardcore punk with emotional depth and narratives reminiscent of the weariness found in Americana music. This musical ethic extended beyond borders, reaching the West coast, Canada, and the South, as bands like Shoulder, Grade, Samiam, Fairweather, and Hot Water Music all contributed their songs to the evolving winds of change.
Resignation, hailing from Toledo, Ohio, pay homage to this musical heritage through their earnest approach to post-hardcore. Their music encourages audiences to confront empathy and recognize shared mental health struggles, emphasizing the importance of community.
The You Are More Than Right Now EP by Resignation is a testament to the band’s connection with the ’90s roster of Revelation Records.
Their decision to cover Texas Is the Reason’s influential ’96 anthem, “Back and to the Left,” resonates perfectly with their sound. The production, skillfully handled by J. Robbins, ensures the homage remains faithful to the original without sounding like a mere replica. Resignation’s EP revitalizes ’90s emo and post-hardcore for contemporary sensibilities, and their rendition of “Back and to the Left,” featuring Zach Godwin of Sparing, exemplifies the state of emo in 2023. This sentiment is echoed by The Alternative, who described the track as an exciting update to the genre.
For those eager to experience Resignation’s energetic performance, the band has live shows scheduled in Columbus, Ohio, on August 11th at Double Happiness, and in Toledo, Ohio, on August 19th at Ottawa Tavern.
August 11-Columbus, Ohio, Double Happiness
August 19-Toledo, Ohio, Ottawa Tavern
