Dark Wave from Wastoid

Hailing from Charlotte, North Carolina, Wastoid is a music duo formed by multi-instrumentalists Jarrett Mintz on guitar, drums, and synthesisers, and Mike Smith on vocals and bass guitar. The pair have been friends for seven years and have been making music together for the last six, after meeting at a home town house party and realising their immediate chemistry.

Together they draw influence from early goth rock styles such as Molchat Doma and psychedelic metal acts including early Black Sabbath and Earth, while also taking inspiration from classic punk outfits Circle Jerks, Descendants and The Dead Kennedys. Staying true to their DIY roots, they cast off shiny expectations when creating their music and aim to capture the in-the-moment chaotic nature of their sound untarnished.

With their latest release, they bring us their new album called Government Sanctioned Weaponized Fem Boys. While their previous release centred more on relevant political themes, with the new album, they offer a conceptual approach that focuses more on the overall character building of the band itself.

Delivering an energetic and edgy new wave sound, dipped in rock tendencies, with their new album they share their sonic vision through their own unfiltered lens. Gritty guitar lines and punk style vocal work combine to create a swaggering sound full of originality and gusto.

Listen to Government Sanctioned Weaponized Fem Boys below