Newslang Premiere Their 2-in-1 Single, “Weighted Shoulders // Breathe”

Recapturing the magic of the sound of a previous era while offering something new is not an easy task, but it’s a formula that Newslang is excelling at. The Last Vegas band released their latest single “weighted shoulders//” in mid-July, preceded by “//breathe” in May. The group has done something interesting and unconventional by now releasing them joined together as one track.

Heavy and aggressive, both songs are reminiscent of the riff-focused hard rock of the 2000s. You can hear a lot of Chevelle or Deftones in these tracks, but not as a throwback, and more of a unique take on a familiar sound. The vocal style is familiar, with catchy hooks and powerful vocals. But this is more than just a rehash. It’s a band paying tribute to an influential period in hard rock, while offering their own take on it.

Commenting on how the songs have been released, Philip Seaton states:

“There was no complicated strategy behind releasing the second half first. Seaton says the band simply wanted to ask, ‘What is something cool we could do that’s not like the usual thing?’”

Newslang formed out of a close collaboration between lead singer and guitarist Philip Seaton and drummer Justin Truitt. They are now a quartet, rounded out by guitarist Drew Morris and bassist Matthew Graham. Seaton and Truitt have known each other for quite a while, having played together in several previous projects. They briefly pursued other creative ventures before reconnecting. Without any intention or expectations, they began writing music for the hell of it. Things began to take shape quickly, and suddenly Seaton and Truitt had something promising starting. The band’s first single “So Long” was written in one night, the same day Seaton purchased a 1976 Gibson Les Paul Custom guitar. It felt like an important, foundational moment and inspired Seaton to pursue this new musical vision to the fullest.

The band’s sound has evolved into a gritty, melodic take on modern hard rock with a certain nostalgic edge. Nostalgia has always been a fixture of rock music since its beginnings. Newslang has found a space within which they can conjure up that same emotion and resonate with listeners who still love the music of their youth, but are also interested in discovering new, worthwhile musical experiences.

Newslang “Weighted Shoulders // Breathe” single artwork