Interview with DIY artist discussing new album “PRANG”
“I have devoted two decades to producing for other bands, and now it’s time to focus on my own band,” shares A’s Jason Perry. It has been a long wait for many fans, but the release of their fifth studio album, ‘PRANG,’ promises to be worth it. A has always been recognized for their enthusiasm and sense of community, so when Perry describes ‘PRANG’ as being crafted through BBQ rehearsals and spontaneous recording sessions resulting in the creation of the first single ‘Hello Sunshine’ in just two hours, it feels like a perfect match.
Amidst a music industry where rock music is losing its edge, A remains authentically themselves. “We aimed for this record to be as DIY and genuine as possible,” Perry states. A stays true to their roots, keeping their garage sound alive in a music scene that is constantly evolving. ‘PRANG’ delivers a clear message from Perry that music is an art form.
This album has allowed A to break free from deadlines and constraints of studio time, resulting in their most raw and unfiltered work. The lead single ‘Hello Sunshine’ perfectly represents this creative vision. “One moment it didn’t exist, and then two hours later, it sounds exactly as you hear it on the record,” Perry shares.
A rose to prominence in the late 1990s and early 2000s, establishing themselves as a familiar presence in the alternative rock scene. Despite hiatuses and years without new releases, Perry reassures that the band’s chemistry has always been strong. The camaraderie among band members has never wavered, with occasional festival appearances and gatherings as friends. When guitarist Mark Chapman sent ideas to Perry, it was effortless to pick up where they left off and craft ‘PRANG.’
As ‘PRANG’ gears up for release on May 22nd, A has already unveiled four singles from the album, setting the tone for what’s to come. Each track showcases a variety of musical styles and themes. From ‘Hello Sunshine’s’ crafted riffs to ‘Bring On The Likes’ catchy choruses, the album promises diversity. The tracks in ‘PRANG’ are imbued with courage and honesty in their songwriting and lyricism. ‘Shit Summer,’ in particular, reflects Perry’s battle with depression, serving as a powerful reminder that it’s okay to be honest about life’s struggles.
‘PRANG’ not only marks a new chapter for A but also revisits the DIY sound of their roots. Perry emphasizes that embracing this direction was a deliberate choice. A will debut these new tracks at Slam Dunk Festival 2026, alongside bands like Good Charlotte and Taking Back Sunday. Perry hints at surprises in their performance, aiming to combine old favorites with fresh material. The festival atmosphere will align perfectly with the DIY ethos of ‘PRANG,’ promising a memorable experience for fans.