Boys Life Returns: New Music After Nearly 30 Years
The influential Kansas City emo band Boys Life, pioneers of the Midwest emo sound in the 1990s, are making a significant return to the music scene. After a hiatus of nearly three decades, the band has announced the release of their first new music, a four-song EP titled Ordinary Wars, set to be released on November 21 through Spartan Records. This rejuvenation follows their reunion last year, where they reissued their seminal work with Numero Group.
A New Chapter for Boys Life
Boys Life formed in 1993, in a vibrant music scene alongside contemporaries like Braid and Christie Front Drive. Their debut album, Boys Life, released in 1995, and its follow-up, Departures and Landfalls, in 1996, showcased a unique blend of heavy indie rock and earnest emo lyricism. Band members Brandon Butler (vocals, guitar), Joe Winkle (guitar), John Rejba (bass), and John Anderson (drums) cemented their legacy during their original run in the music industry.
Though the band reunited briefly in 2015 and again in 2024 for live performances, they hadn’t written any new material together since the 1990s. The catalyst for their new music emerged from the reissue project, reigniting their creative spirit. They recorded Ordinary Wars at Kansas City’s Weights and Measures Soundlab in June 2024.
Exploring Themes of Struggle and Existence
The lead single from the EP, titled “Ordinary War,” accompanies the announcement with a music video that delves into profound themes. In a recent interview, Butler expressed his reflections on modern society, stating, “I think about how short life is a lot.” He critiques the societal structures that prioritize “America, money, status, time, and titles,” regarding them as illusions that distract individuals from authentic living.
Butler elaborated, emphasizing the internal battle against these societal pressures: “If one were to fight a war against these fabrications, one would have to start breaking that framework and value system down. The war would be inside each of us.” His poignant insights reflect a growing discontent with corporate dominance and the pervasive impact of social media, framing the struggle as a necessary fight for personal freedom and authenticity.
The Significance of Their Return
The impending release of Ordinary Wars is momentous not only for the band but also for their fans and the wider emo and indie rock communities. After decades of evolution in the music landscape, Boys Life’s return signifies a revival of a genre that laid the groundwork for many contemporary artists.
As they navigate the balance between nostalgia and modernity, the band aims to resonate with both long-time followers and new listeners. Their unique sound and compelling lyricism continue to capture the complexities of life in America, making their upcoming EP anticipated by music enthusiasts across the board.
For listeners eager to experience the new direction of Boys Life, the lead single “Ordinary War” is available for streaming, with further details and the full EP accessible via Spartan Records.
In conclusion, Boys Life’s re-emergence not only marks a significant milestone in their own history but also reinforces the impact of emo music on a generation. As they prepare to confront contemporary issues through their art, their upcoming work promises to inspire discussions around authenticity and resistance against the overwhelming forces that shape modern life.
