Brendan Yates discusses his band’s reinvention of hardcore punk
Turnstile’s Brendan Yates finds himself in an unexpected position of fame after Charli XCX’s Coachella set when she hinted that it was time for “Turnstile Summer.” This surprise endorsement from the pop star left Yates initially puzzled, but soon he was overwhelmed by messages from friends, alerting him to the shout-out. Reflecting on this moment while strolling through a park in Los Angeles, Yates appreciates the recognition from someone as influential as Charli XCX, acknowledging her ability to connect with a broad audience.
Known for their unique blend of musical styles, Turnstile defies traditional hardcore punk labels. Despite emerging from the hardcore scene in the early 2010s, their music transcends the typical hardcore boundaries, appealing to a wide range of listeners. Their sound, while still rooted in aggressive riffs and energetic vocals, encompasses a more diverse and dynamic range. Standout albums like 2018’s Time & Space and the Grammy-nominated Glow On from 2021 showcase Turnstile’s ability to infuse their music with joy and optimism, even in the face of cathartic intensity.
As they gear up for the release of their highly anticipated fourth album, Never Enough, Turnstile seems unfazed by the surrounding hype. Yates, fully absorbed in the creative process, is focused on crafting a visual experience to accompany the album. Co-directed with guitarist Pat McCrory, the visual album, Turnstile: Never Enough, promises to be a unique and immersive journey. With no formal training in film, Yates approaches this project with the same DIY ethos that has guided the band from its inception.
The decision to create a visual album was a natural progression for Yates, as he views music as a visual medium. Never Enough, with its cohesive narrative and interconnected songs, lends itself perfectly to this format. Despite the impending deadline, Yates remains calm and deliberate, ensuring that every aspect of the project aligns with his creative vision.
For Turnstile, music is more than just a sonic experience; it’s a means of expression and connection. Their willingness to push boundaries and challenge genre conventions has earned them a dedicated following and recognition from artists across various musical genres. As they continue to evolve and experiment, Turnstile proves that music has the power to transcend labels and create a truly immersive and transformative experience for both artists and listeners alike.