E.R.I.E. - The Highs [EP]

“Frothing and humming with surging punk-pop dynamics, E.R.I.E. punches out waves of infectious momentum…”  – V13

“E.R.I.E. are about as great as modern punk can get…” – Take Effect

“A veritable tour-de-force of musicianship, lyricism and songwriting…”  – Nippertown

“A rocking, compelling contemplation of this insanity we’ve been calling the 21st century…” – The Rodeo Magazine

“Oh well; we’re all dying anyway…” is how E.R.I.E. wrapped up the opening track to last year’s critically-lauded, sophomore record, Suburban Mayhem. It was a bleak yet raucous mission statement from a band who spent a majority of the following 11 tracks expressing their frustrations with the world around them, and how to find hope in the midst of it all.

Roughly 18 months later, the Upstate New York indie-punk rockers are announcing their return in a big way. The Highs, The Lows, And Everything In Between is a concept record in three EP-sized parts–a poignant examination of the music industry both past and present.

The first chapter of the trilogy, THE HIGHS, is an upbeat, “capital-R” Rock EP that injects further irresistible energy into the band’s catalog. The four-song collection has all the qualities of a fun, no-frills pop-rock record, with pounding rhythms, loud guitars and soaring melodies. Thematically, the EP looks back fondly on making music at a young age with no expectations, and sends an emotional nod of appreciation to the ones that have supported along the way. ‘There’s only one thing that’s saved my life and it’s a loud stage on a Friday night…’ Foster declares over a bombastic rhythm section on “Hard Headed,” which notably features the multi-hyphenate performer Erin Harkes on vocals.

Later this Fall, the lows promises to showcase the band stretching their legs stylistically in ways they’ve yet to. Stemming from moments of burnout and disillusionment with the industry, the trilogy’s second chapter is laced with vulnerability, providing a first-hand account of the self-doubt and frustrations that accompany chasing an “impossible dream” for so many years. ‘I hate to hear it from myself, but maybe I’m not good enough…’ Foster somberly admits in the EP’s closer, “Battlescars”.

…And Everything in Between will wrap up the record in early 2025, with the final four songs finding some sort of middle ground between not only the first two chapters, but the rest of their discography as well. Together, the twelve songs showcase a band that has not only found their footing, but is determined to leave an impact.