Stateside Announce Debut LP 'Where You Found Me' and Release Lead Single "Stay Sweet" Featuring Knuckle Puck

Table of Contents

1. Key Highlights
2. Introduction
3. The Rise of Stateside
4. The Concept Behind "Stay Sweet"
5. Collaborations that Matter
6. Upcoming Tour: A Moment to Connect
7. Cultural and Historical Context in Punk
8. The Future of Stateside
9. FAQ

Key Highlights

• Debut LP Announcement: Rising pop-punk band Stateside is set to release their first album, Where You Found Me, on June 6, 2025, through Pure Noise Records.
• Single Release: The album's lead single, "Stay Sweet," features Joe Taylor from Knuckle Puck, delving into themes of nostalgia and fleeting youth.
• Upcoming Tour: Stateside will embark on a tour supporting Anxious and will perform several shows with Knuckle Puck.

Introduction

As the punk rock landscape continues to evolve, territory is fiercely contested. Emerging from this scene is Stateside, a formidable force heralded for their energetic blend of hardcore-infused pop-punk. With an anticipated debut album titled Where You Found Me, set to drop on June 6, 2025, the band captures the spirit of nostalgia and the trials of youth in their new single, "Stay Sweet." The collaboration with Joe Taylor of Knuckle Puck adds a rich layer to this vibrant offering as it grapples with the ephemeral nature of invincibility in young adulthood.

Stateside's journey exemplifies a new wave of artists carving their niche in a genre steeped in history while simultaneously bringing fresh perspectives. In this article, we explore the band’s lyrical themes, their collaborations, and what to expect from their upcoming tour—a critical phase in promoting their debut effort and solidifying their place in the pop-punk sphere.

The Rise of Stateside

Formed in 2020, Stateside hailing from Chicago, has steadily climbed the ranks of the pop-punk genre, merging influences from both classic and contemporary bands. The band's name evokes a notion of grounding and relatability, drawing from their experiences and surroundings. As the pop-punk revival continues, artists infused with heavy punk and hardcore influences like Stateside are finding their voice. Bands such as Saves The Day and New Found Glory have historically defined the genre, acting as touchstones for newer acts navigating today's music industry challenges.

Influences and Sound

Stateside’s music channels the energy characteristic of early 2000s pop-punk while adopting modern production techniques. Their sound has drawn comparisons to bands like The Story So Far and The Wonder Years, blending catchy hooks with raw, emotive lyrics. The recent collaborations with well-established acts like Knuckle Puck and Vamachara signal their ambitions and the eclectic influences shaping their sound.

The Concept Behind "Stay Sweet"

"Stay Sweet," the lead single from Where You Found Me, lyrically examines the nostalgia associated with youth and the inevitable sobering realization that follows. In a recent statement, the band described the song as a reflection on losing the invincibility often felt in younger days. It resonates with listeners navigating similar feelings of reminiscence, seeking comfort in fond memories while grappling with present challenges.

Analyzing the Lyrics

The song's lyrics are poignant, reflecting a universal struggle:

“After a rough night or week, I find myself reminiscing on a good memory, wishing I could somehow be there again.”

This depiction of invoking past experiences resonates deeply with listeners, tapping into the bittersweet nature of memory as it intersects with identity and growth. In an age where music is an escape, "Stay Sweet" captures this transitional moment in life that many individuals experience, contributing to its potential appeal among young audiences.

Collaborations that Matter

Collaborations in music can often lead to intriguing blends of styles and perspectives. With Joe Taylor of Knuckle Puck lending his vocals to "Stay Sweet," Stateside not only builds on their credibility within the musical community but also infuses their sound with an established pop-punk flavor. Knuckle Puck, known for their emotive lyrics and energetic performances, lends a familiarity that will undoubtedly attract their fans to Stateside’s work.

The Impact of Choosing Guests

Featuring artists from different subgenres within the rock spectrum—like Vamachara's metalcore roots—shows Stateside's desire to push boundaries. This strategic choice in collaboration also raises interest in the variations present on the tracklist for Where You Found Me. The interplay of styles could appeal to a diverse audience and reflects the inclusive nature of modern punk-influenced genres.

Upcoming Tour: A Moment to Connect

With the debut album release set for June, Stateside is also primed for a tour that underscores their burgeoning reputation. They have already initiated a tour with fellow act Anxious, capitalizing on the momentum built from their upcoming music. This tour is integral not only for promoting their album but for solidifying connections with their audience through live performance.

Tour Dates and Venues

Stateside's tour schedule includes:

• April 2nd: Globe Hall, Denver, CO
• April 5th: 7th Street Entry, Minneapolis, MN
• April 6th: Cobra Lounge, Chicago, IL
• April 7th: The Sanctuary, Hamtramck, MI
• April 8th: Mahall’s, Lakewood, OH
• April 10th: Bowery Ballroom, New York, NY
• April 11th: The Sinclair, Cambridge, MA
• Following performances with Knuckle Puck:
  • May 7th: Summit, Denver, CO
  • May 9th: House Of Blues, Anaheim, CA

This tour provides both the band and the fans a crucial opportunity for interaction and emotional engagement through shared experiences, reinforcing the core elements of camaraderie present in punk culture.

Cultural and Historical Context in Punk

Punk rock emerged in the 1970s as a raw counterculture movement, often defined by its rebellion against established norms and its emphasis on authenticity. Over the decades, it has evolved into various subgenres, and pop-punk emerged as a more melodic offshoot in the 1990s and early 2000s. Bands like Blink-182 and Fall Out Boy popularized the genre, bringing a mix of youthful exuberance and introspective lyrics.

Historical context enriches our understanding of Stateside’s place within the genre. As societal conditions and digital interactions evolve, the themes bands explore have similarly transformed, focusing more on mental health, identity, and nostalgia—themes central to their music.

The Future of Stateside

With the impending launch of Where You Found Me, Stateside may define a new era for pop-punk that resonates with both nostalgic fans and a new generation seeking authenticity. Their ability to innovate upon musical traditions while maintaining ties to their influences is crucial in carving their piece of the musical landscape.

Industry Observations

As they prepare for their debut, industry experts suggest that successful debut albums often set the tone for artists’ careers. How Stateside pivots narratively and stylistically in their first album could influence their direction moving forward, determining their ability to sustain relevance and growth in a competitive arena.

Following the album's release, fans will be eager to see how Stateside continues to evolve, including potential growth in their fanbase, musical exploration in future projects, and their ability to stay connected in a culture driven by digital presence and experience sharing.

FAQ

1. What is Stateside’s debut album title and release date?

Stateside’s debut album is titled Where You Found Me and is set to be released on June 6, 2025.

2. Who features on the single "Stay Sweet"?

The lead single "Stay Sweet" features Joe Taylor from the pop-punk band Knuckle Puck.

3. What themes are explored in "Stay Sweet"?

"Stay Sweet" explores themes of nostalgia, the fleeting feeling of invincibility in youth, and the tendency to reflect on meaningful memories during challenging times.

4. Will Stateside be touring after the album release?

Yes, Stateside is currently on tour and will be performing alongside bands like Anxious and Knuckle Puck in various venues across the United States.

5. What is the sound of Stateside’s music?

Stateside’s music combines elements of hardcore and pop-punk, echoing influences from both classic bands and newer acts in the genre, showcasing energetic melodies paired with emotive lyrics.

6. How can fans access the new music video for "Stay Sweet"?

Fans can find the music video for "Stay Sweet," directed by Natalie Simmons and Ash Summerford, on music streaming platforms and social media channels associated with Stateside.

Stateside's emergence onto the music scene with their debut album Where You Found Me signals not only a promising future for the band but also a revitalization of the pop-punk genre. The rich tapestry of emotions woven into their music, combined with engaging live performances, will likely sustain their presence in an ever-evolving musical landscape.