Elephant Protocol’s latest single, “They Live,” is a captivating anthem that brilliantly captures the essence of their punk rock roots and rebellious spirit. Hailing from the vibrant Philadelphia underground scene, the band, spearheaded by the charismatic lead singer Josh Calkins, has carved a distinctive niche for themselves with their unique blend of punk rock and diverse musical influences.
The journey of Elephant Protocol began seven years ago when Josh Calkins joined forces with esteemed producer and lead guitarist Jake Detwiler to record their debut single, “Good Idea.” This initial collaboration laid the foundation for the band’s future endeavors, leading them to expand their lineup with the addition of drummer Shawn Riley and vocalist Genevieve Marziani.
“They Live” is a compelling reminder of Elephant Protocol’s forceful presence in the music scene. The song’s title is drawn from John Carpenter’s iconic film “They Live,” which explores themes of political manipulation, control structures, and the battle for a better world. Josh Calkins, the band’s frontman, explains that his inspiration for the song came from his lifelong fascination with control structures and the idea that a powerful force perpetually pushes humanity towards conflict and disunity. Calkins delves into the hero’s journey, where an individual confronts the source of this disunity with the aim of achieving ultimate peace.
“They Live” is a powerful and thought-provoking track that combines the raw energy of punk rock with a poignant message. The song’s lyrics and driving rhythms reflect a desire for a world where people can live in safety, enjoy the simple pleasures of life, and find unity amid chaos. Elephant Protocol’s passion for this message is palpable in their performance, as they pour their hearts and souls into the music.
The instrumentation on “They Live” is a testament to the band’s musicianship and Jake Detwiler’s production expertise. The powerful guitar riffs and dynamic drumming create a pulsating energy that perfectly complements the song’s theme. Josh Calkins‘ vocals are delivered with fervor, adding an authentic and emotional dimension to the track.
“They Live” is not just a song; it’s a call to action. It invites listeners to question the control structures that shape our lives and to consider the possibility of a better, more unified world. Elephant Protocol’s ability to convey such a profound message while maintaining their punk rock edge is a testament to their musical prowess and artistic vision.
In conclusion, “They Live” by Elephant Protocol is a remarkable single that showcases the band’s evolution and their unwavering commitment to making music that matters. With their explosive energy and rebellious spirit, Elephant Protocol continues to make a significant impact on the music scene, and “They Live” is a testament to their talent and passion. This single is a must-listen for fans of punk rock and anyone looking for music with a powerful message that resonates in today’s world.
ABOUT THE BAND:
Philadelphia-based punk band Elephant Protocol emerged from the depths of the local underground scene as the brainchild of charismatic lead singer Josh Calkins. With their explosive energy and refusal to play by the rules, the band quickly carved a niche for themselves with their unique blend of punk rock and diverse musical influences. The journey began seven years ago when they recorded a series of demos at Fresh Produce studios. These demos formed the foundation of Elephant Protocol’s first full-length album “Thailand.” This boundary-pushing release showcased the band’s willingness to experiment and defy musical norms and spawned three remarkable singles that captured the attention of both fans and industry insiders alike. “Good Idea” and “Burn” were quickly championed by local FM station 93.3 WMMR, gaining widespread recognition. However, it was the third single, “Sever & Break,” that became Elephant Protocol’s breakout hit, captivating audiences far beyond their native city. Despite the success, Elephant Protocol entered a period of hibernation as the band members embarked on individual journeys, exploring new projects and locations. Now, emerging from their creative slumber, Elephant Protocol is poised to reclaim their throne with the upcoming EP, “Sink In.” Recorded at Sleepless Sound studios and helmed by acclaimed producer and drummer Lucas Kozinski, this new release promises to push Elephant Protocol’s sound even further into the realms of intensity and raw power.
