Scowl - Are We All Angels - Olive Green Vinyl Record

Scowl is a fierce band embodying their name. In five years, the Santa Cruz group has established itself in the hardcore scene with an aggressive sound and powerful live shows alongside Circle Jerks and Limp Bizkit, performing at festivals like Coachella. Their new album, Are We All Angels, channels this aggression into a broader expression. The album reflects Scowl’s evolving role in hardcore, where they are both embraced and challenged. The standout single " Not Hell, Not Heaven " rejects outsider narratives, focusing on personal empowerment. Vocalist Kat Moss explains it's about embracing one's power despite feeling victimized. " Fantasy " explores alienation in the scene, with Moss sharing her struggle to connect with others. The closing track, " Are We All Angels,” poses philosophical questions, Is this all there is?” and ultimately putting it on the listener to decide. “It’s about the personal battle between good and evil, and intriguingly omits punctuation for open interpretation. This album follows their debut, How Flowers Grow, which featured the standout interlude “Seeds to Sow” that hinted at their evolution. Drummer Cole Gilbert notes this laid the foundation for their current direction. Their recent Psychic Dance Routine EP further expanded their sound, incorporating pop elements and softer vocals. Producer Will Yip enhanced their growth, restructuring songs for better hooks while maintaining their edge. The band remains committed to punk's ethos, with guitarist Malachi Greene stating, “At our core, we are a punk and hardcore band.”