California’s fiercest hardcore export, Scowl, has officially signed with Dead Oceans, the renowned indie label known for nurturing genre-defying acts like Phoebe Bridgers and Japanese Breakfast. To celebrate, the band has dropped a hard-hitting new single, “Special,” along with an accompanying music video that is already turning heads.
“Special” showcases Scowl in full form, blending raw energy with a surprising melodic sensibility. The track sees vocalist Kat Moss effortlessly switching between her signature ferocious screams and more reflective, almost spoken-word verses. The result? A dynamic, unpredictable listening experience that solidifies Scowl’s reputation as one of the most versatile bands in today’s hardcore scene. Guitarists Malachi Greene and Mikey Bifolco, bassist Bailey Lupo, and drummer Cole Gilbert layer the track with punchy riffs and a relentless rhythm that demands repeat listens.
The video for “Special,” directed by Scowl’s longtime collaborator, captures the intensity of the track, juxtaposing chaotic live footage with shots that highlight the band’s playful and charismatic stage presence. It’s a fitting visual counterpart to a song that, according to Moss, explores the frustration of trying to articulate personal desires in a world that often feels indifferent.
“‘Special’ is a kamikaze,” Moss explains. “It’s me wrestling with my own sense of purpose. I’m asking the audience, ‘What do you really want?’ when really, I’m searching for my own answer: ‘What do I really want?’ The answer is simple—I want to feel alive.” This raw introspection, paired with the band’s genre-defying sound, makes “Special” an essential listen for both hardcore purists and those curious to see just how far Scowl can push the boundaries.
“Special” was produced by Grammy-nominated Will Yip, who helmed the band’s acclaimed Psychic Dance Routine EP, and mixed by Rich Costey (known for his work with Deftones and Fiona Apple). The track’s high-octane production shines, maintaining the band’s underground grit while embracing a larger, more anthemic sound—think the audacity of punk colliding head-on with arena rock grandeur.
Since forming in 2019, Scowl has rapidly ascended through the hardcore ranks, with their debut album How Flowers Grow making waves in 2021. They’ve shared stages with heavyweights like Limp Bizkit, Show Me The Body, and Touche Amore, and have appeared at some of the most prestigious festivals around, including Coachella and Primavera Sound. The 2023 release of Psychic Dance Routine saw the band experimenting with new textures and song structures, catching the ear of Dead Oceans and securing them a spot on the label’s already impressive roster.
As Scowl prepares to launch into their next chapter, “Special” serves as both a statement of intent and a warning: this band isn’t just riding the wave of hardcore’s resurgence—they’re determined to steer it. With Dead Oceans behind them, Scowl seems poised to bring their visceral, unfiltered energy to an even broader audience. If “Special” is any indication, they’re only getting started.
Watch the video for “Special”:
Upcoming live dates
