The Witzard

SAMIAM 2023 press shot (CREDIT: Austin Rhodes) SAMIAM just wouldn't be the same without a little bit of chaos. Over their three decades together, the Oakland, California-based band have specialized in energetic hard luck songs that are as hooky as they are relatable. So, perhaps, it's fitting that the creation of Stowaway, the band's first new album in 12 years and their ninth full-length, wasn't the easiest. There are very few bands better at capturing the feeling of stumbling only to get up again and on Stowaway, SAMIAM prove exactly why they remain one of the most endearing and enduring Punk bands of their generation. Initially formed in 1988, SAMIAM—whose current line-up includes long-time members Jason Beebout (vocals,) Sean Kennerly (guitar,) and Sergie Loobkoff (guitar,) as well as newer additions Colin Brooks (drums) and Chad Darby (bass)—grew out of the D.I.Y. Punk scene centered around 924 Gilman Street. After the release of 2011's Trips , the band didn...

SAMIAM Art Week portraits (ART CREDIT: Masato / @imani_shit) Beloved Punk/Emo/Post-hardcore O.G.'s SAMIAM have now signed to Pure Noise Records and are actively working on what will be their first new album since 2011's Trips released on Hopeless Records. Along with the announcement of their signing, SAMIAM have just released their first new single in over a decade, "Lights Out Little Hustler." It features Chris Wollard (Hot Water Music, Ship Thieves, Rumbleseat) and it sounds like a classic revved-up rockin' SAMIAM jam. Vocalist Jason Beebout says, "'Lights Out Little Hustler" is about becoming emotionally detached and creating obstacles to keep people from being close to you. Wanting to be loved, but forgetting how to show it. Knowing that what you have is important, but too afraid to let it be." Check it out an accompanying motion video below. SAMIAM is, also, playing Atlantic City's inaugural Frantic City Festival this upcoming...