Hailing from Merthyr Tydfil in South Wales, pop punk trio Annual Killers are rapidly making a name for themselves as one of the region’s most energetic and emotionally charged new acts. Featuring the talents of BANX, Morgan Price and newest member Jack Lewis, the band, often referred to by their fans as AK!, forged their connection through the local gig circuit. With Jack stepping in on guitar after a lineup change, the group has found new momentum, charging into 2025 with an infectious blend of old-school nostalgia and modern emo grit.
Drawing clear influence from 90s and 00s acts like blink-182, Green Day and Sum 41, Annual Killers also channel the heartfelt intensity of the Midwest Emo wave such as Neck Deep, The Story So Far, Mom Jeans and Title Fight. It’s a sound that wears its heartbreak on its sleeve, yet isn’t afraid to hit with a smile and a mosh pit-ready hook.
After breaking onto the scene in 2023 with debut single “She’s Complicated,” AK! followed up with two more tracks that steadily expanded their presence. Each release has been a clear step forward, both sonically and emotionally, but it’s their latest material that’s crystallising their identity. Earlier this year, they launched 2025 with the punchy “LOVE WARS” and now they’re back with a fresh single that showcases their best work yet.
“IS 12:00 THE NEW 420?” might sound like a tongue-in-cheek title, but underneath its playful exterior lies one of Annual Killers’ most emotionally direct songs to date. Recorded at Northhouse Studio in South Wales, the track is dripping in Midwest Emo textures, mixing clean, melancholy verses with surging choruses and gripping vocal outbursts. The song’s protagonist is caught in the painful purgatory of unrequited love, desperately longing for something that feels just out of reach and by the final moments, the track bursts into the anguished scream of a cathartic cry.
Opened by the gritty twang of guitars and roll of drums, the track jumps into a lively indie rock scene as expressive vocal leads ring out above. Propelled by punching drums and bouncy energy, catchy vocal hooks cut through the crunch of guitar and pulse of bass to craft an engaging listening experience that’s invigorating and infectious throughout. Reaching a breakdown of pattering drums and calm guitars, the finale erupts with belted vocals and a passage of half-time rhythm to deliver a spectacular moment and leave a lasting impression of the song.
It’s an epic display of Annual Killers’ original musical vision and slick performance panache, resulting in a thrilling rock outing that deftly balances elements of alternative, indie and emo stylings. With new material lined up and live shows on the horizon, Annual Killers are set to turn local buzz into something much bigger and we can’t wait to see what comes next on their exciting musical journey.
Listen to IS 12:00 THE NEW 420? below
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