Plutocracy Planet shares latest single "A Simple Refrain" Feat. Matt Pryor, Swamburger, and Mike Kinsella
With a mission to confront societal injustices head-on, Plutocracy Planet, a groundbreaking sociopolitical super-collective helmed by former Alarm Magazine editor Scott Morrow, has shared their latest single, "A Simple Refrain."
This poignant electro-acoustic anthem, released in three movements, incorporates elements of Southwestern guitar, acoustic Pixies vibes, and a hard-hitting electro-rap finale.
Inspired by the events of 2020 and the resurgence of the Black Lives Matter movement, "A Simple Refrain" delves into the pervasive issue of racially charged police brutality. Featuring the evocative vocals of Matt Pryor (The Get Up Kids), an electrifying rap verse by Swamburger (Solillaquists of Sound), and a shimmering guitar contribution from indie luminary Mike Kinsella (American Football), the track is a stirring call to action in the fight against systemic racism and inequality.
In discussing the song's significance, Morrow reflects on the tragic death of George Floyd and the subsequent wave of protests that swept the USA:
“Though there have been countless killings of unarmed and non-threatening people of color, easily captured in the smartphone era, the killing of George Floyd really woke a lot of people up," Morrow says. "It was a 'crossing the Rubicon' for a lot of people who perhaps weren't paying much attention or made excuses for simple police stops turning deadly, usually victimizing non-white folks. It's been four years since the historic protests of the summer of 2020, and it feels like the issue has largely disappeared from mainstream view.
But the average annual number of people shot to death by police—at least those that are reported—has actually gone up in the past four years. It's a complex issue, and I don't think that calling for police abolition or reductively calling all cops bastards is helpful. I was hit by a stray bullet in 2021, and if not for a very quick police response, I'd probably be dead. But you can demand accountability for killer cops, enforce punishment for 'the blue wall of silence' and 'testi-lying,' and take steps to address institutional racism while understanding the need for officers who respond to violent situations. It's tragic that we're still dealing with racist vigilante cops and can't even get bodycam footage much of the time, let alone mandate it across the United States.”
As the third single from their forthcoming self-titled debut album, slated for release on July 12, Plutocracy Planet continues to push boundaries and challenge the status quo. Featuring an eclectic lineup of acclaimed vocalists and instrumentalists—including members of The Dillinger Escape Plan, American Football, Protest the Hero, and more—the album promises to be a bold exploration of contemporary issues and a rallying cry for social change.
Save the date for Plutocracy Planet, and watch the video for “A Simple Refrain”:
