Het Up!

EP ||| (2024)

mikebored

Toronto-based punk band Het Up! has just dropped their latest release, EP |||, featuring two dynamic tracks that pack a punch in a concise 7 minutes and 30 seconds. The band, which includes members from Permanent Bastards and Crooked Hook, continues to carve out their place in the punk scene with a blend of classic influences and fresh energy. This new release carries on the tradition of their former projects and provides a much needed injection of punk tracks for your playlists.  

Released on July 26th through Cursed Blessings Records, EP ||| showcases Het Up!'s ability to channel the spirit of punk while bringing something new to the table. The first track, "Painless Disorder," is a high-energy skate punk anthem that wouldn't be out of place on a Fat Wreck Chords compilation. The song’s upbeat tempo, driven by relentless guitar riffs, is complemented by dual vocals that create a call-and-response dynamic reminiscent of Red City Radio. The chorus is particularly infectious, with an anthemic hook that begs for sing-alongs, making it a perfect addition to any punk playlist.

The second track, "Till Nothing's Left," maintains the momentum with a slightly more measured pace. While it starts off slower, the build-up is worth the wait, delivering a powerful payoff in its latter half. The guitar work stands out, especially with the use of the neck pickup, adding a unique texture to the song. Vocally, the track evokes memories of Smoke or Fire, providing a nostalgic yet fresh listening experience.

Overall, Het Up! does an excellent job of paying homage to punk’s roots while paving the way for its future. Their sound honors the genre's past while pushing it forward. The band is set to open for NOFX on their farewell tour in Toronto this weekend, a fitting stage for their explosive new EP.