Priced Out have put their scream into the void to music with their debut EP Four Songs.

By Graeme Smith

Priced Out are a punk band from Vancouver, Canada consisting of Rene on guitar, Graham on bass, Devin on drums, Joel on guitar, and Rob on lead vocals. Musically, they draw inspiration from the likes of Idles, Dead Kennedys and Lou Reed

They’ve just come to my attention through their debut EP Four Songs. It was written in frustration in a world of opioid epidemics and housing crises where people punch down and ignore their best interests in the process. It’s a cry out for more support and empathy for those who need it.

Four Songs was recorded in the band’s rehearsal room in East Vancouver and was mixed and mastered by bassist Graham Madden. The DIY approach gives the EP a sense of immediacy. Right from the opening of Pull The Ladder Up we get raw and fuzzy guitar, edgy drums and vocals that sound like they’re in the room with you. Sardonic lyrics seal the deal in a strong start.

Poisoned Drugs takes its case to the middle classes with its fiery, take-no-prisoners lyrics. Rumbling, stripped-back verses are contrasted nicely by lively choruses. Hedge Fund Maze is the kind of track that you can’t help but move along to, and if you’re not already ready to rebel by its point of the EP, then it’ll do the trick.

The collection is then rounded off by the experimental and expansive Artwashing. Echoing notes start the track off before things arrive at a spoken-word, post-rock verse. It’s a final highlight.

With their new EP, Priced Out have really announced themselves. If you’re a fan of raw, socially-conscious punk rock then it absolutely needs to be in your rotation. I’m expecting big things from Priced Out in the future.

Four Songs is out now and you can check it out below.