Motion City Soundtrack: A Pop-Punk Resurrection
Meet the Band
In a Brooklyn office, we find Justin Pierre, the charismatic frontman of Motion City Soundtrack (MCS), sporting his signature mad professor hair and black-rimmed glasses. He casually sips juice, embodying the quirky, punk science teacher vibe. Beside him sits Joshua Cain, the band’s lead guitarist and co-founder, whose impressive beard could easily belong to a Norse god.
A Conversational Dynamic
The duo engages in a lively discussion that covers an eclectic range of topics, from The Carpenters to the Flaming Lips, and even the saxophonist Roland Kirk, whom Justin praises for his exceptional talent. Their banter resembles a game of word tennis, showcasing their close bond and mutual understanding.
The Bittersweet Hiatus
In 2016, MCS announced a hiatus that left fans heartbroken. Their statement reflected uncertainty about the future: “We have no idea what the future holds, but for now we are done.” This marked a pause for one of the most distinctive bands of the post-millennium, known for albums like Commit This To Memory and Even If It Kills Me.
Reasons for the Hiatus
Multiple factors contributed to the decision to step back, including the evolving music industry, family commitments, and the exhaustion from years of touring. Josh recalls feeling burnt out and recognizing the need for personal growth. Justin adds that therapy helped him learn to balance his various roles in life.
Rediscovering Their Identity
Despite their hiatus, the pair remained connected, collaborating on Justin’s solo album, In The Drink, in 2018. Over time, they realized that what they had initially needed to distance themselves from was, in fact, integral to their identities.
Embracing Their Roots
Josh describes his journey of self-discovery during the hiatus, ultimately concluding that being part of MCS is a fundamental aspect of who he is. Similarly, Justin reflects on the importance of their musical legacy and how it fuels their creativity.
Returning to the Stage
Since their hiatus, MCS has gradually re-emerged, performing reunion shows and releasing singles. Now, they are ready to unveil their first new album in a decade, The Same Old Wasted Wonderful World, set to release on September 19 via Epitaph.
A New Album with Passion
This new record is a testament to their dedication and passion for music. Josh emphasizes the importance of creating an album they genuinely cared about, regardless of commercial success. The energy and creativity of the band are palpable throughout the album, featuring standout tracks like “She Is Afraid” and an impressive solo by Justin on the title track.
Collaborations and Features
The album also showcases collaborations with notable artists, including Fall Out Boy’s Patrick Stump and Mat Kerekes from Citizen, adding depth and excitement to their return.
Conclusion
As Motion City Soundtrack embarks on this new chapter, fans can expect a blend of nostalgia and fresh energy in their music. Their journey of self-discovery, resilience, and creativity culminates in The Same Old Wasted Wonderful World, promising a compelling listening experience that resonates with the essence of pop-punk.
FAQs
When is the new album by Motion City Soundtrack set to release?
The new album, The Same Old Wasted Wonderful World, is scheduled for release on September 19.
What are some of the standout tracks on the new album?
Notable tracks include “She Is Afraid” and the title track, which features an impressive guitar solo by Justin Pierre.
Who are some of the collaborators on the new album?
The album features collaborations with Fall Out Boy’s Patrick Stump, Deanna Belos of Sincere Engineer, and Mat Kerekes from Citizen.
Why did Motion City Soundtrack go on hiatus?
The band took a break due to burnout, family commitments, and the changing landscape of the music industry, recognizing the need for personal growth.
Will the band be touring in support of the new album?
While specific tour plans have not been announced, the band has previously performed reunion shows and may consider touring in the future. Stay tuned for updates!
