What’s the saga? It’s a UK-based supergroup composed of Biffy Clyro frontman Simon Neil and Oceansize luminary Mike Vennart. Empire State Bastard formed late-pandemic out of an aimless hatred toward life and those who inhabit it. The collaboration channels a wrathful energy by duct-taping abrupt noise walls into thrash metal screams. The result is delectably cathartic.
Armed with Slayer’s Dave Lombardo on drums, Empire State Bastard already dropped their single “Harvest” to solid acclaim. It’s a tune that more resembles a railgun than a structured track, but Neil and Vennart are in full form here. They’ve been adept for more than a decade now, both packing discographies filled to the brim with dense riffs, bloodletting screams, and complex rhythms. Empire State Bastard are slated to drop their debut album this summer.
So keep a note on the fridge: the momentum they’ve captured already is barreling - and that’s massive news for Oceansize enthusiasts. Self Preserved While the Bodies Float Up just turned 13; the supergroup is scratching a near-forgotten itch.
Check out Empire State Bastard on their socials and consider jamming down at one of their summer shows:
Jun 09: Download Festival, UK
Jun 15: Brudenell, Leeds
Jun 16: Mash, Cambridge
Jun 18: Hellfest, France
Jul 07: 2000trees Festival, UK
Jul 17: ArcTanGent, Bristol
Jul 21: Malakoff Rockfestival, Norway
