PETALPUSHER brings back heavy melodic hardcore with EP “For Who We Used To Be”
Petalpusher bursts onto the music scene, reviving heavy melodic hardcore with their EP “For Who We Used To Be.” The band quickly came together after Justin, Nate, Tyler, and Jordan decided to form a group in Phoenix. Drawing inspiration from late ’90s and early 2000s melodic hardcore bands like Shai Hulud, Killing the Dream, Suicide File, Have Heart, Bane, and Poison the Well, Petalpusher aimed to capture the essence of that era with a blend of melody and speed, punctuated by impactful breakdowns and infectious hooks.
The band, born out of long-standing friendships and a shared passion for hardcore music, sought to bring back a style of music they felt was fading into obscurity. Justin expressed a desire to preserve the hardcore sound they grew up listening to, acknowledging the flourishing heavier side of the genre while ensuring that their preferred style didn’t disappear. Tyler’s raw and emotional vocals, paired with poignant lyrics revolving around topics like straight edge, purpose, grief, and resolve, added depth and intensity to their tracks.
Described as a throwback to the underground basement shows of yesteryears, Petalpusher’s music evokes a sense of nostalgia and authenticity. Each song on their EP embodies the energy and rawness of live performances, with elements like dog piles, circle pits, two-steps, stage dives, and scream-alongs seamlessly integrated into the music. The band crafted “For Who We Used To Be” organically, waiting until they had six tracks that felt right before heading to the studio.
Following the EP’s release, Petalpusher wasted no time hitting the stage, playing local shows and spreading their music to a wider audience. Embracing a DIY ethos, they screen-printed their own shirts and sought to connect with fans on a personal level by ensuring physical copies of their EP were readily available. Their commitment to authenticity and passion for the hardcore scene shine through in every aspect of their music and their approach to engaging with their audience.
Petalpusher’s music is a testament to their dedication and unwavering belief in the power of hardcore music. With every riff, every lyric, and every ferocious performance, the band stands as a reminder of what it means to be true to oneself and committed to a cause. Straight edge and resolute, Petalpusher embodies the spirit of hardcore, reviving a sound that resonates with fans of the genre and reigniting a flame of authenticity in the music industry.