Pop punk artists are often known for telling it like it is while giving listeners heavy bass lines, punchy riffs and perfect music to dance to. Keeping realism throughout their lyrics and tackling both hopes and fears in a way that leaves fans feeling understood, it’s no wonder that the genre has kept such a large following since its inception.
And now, even decades after the genre began, we are treated with new pop punk artists that help keep us feeling just as understood and validated as ever. One of whom being Philadelphia based quartet Cheer Up Dusty.
After launching their official debut in 2019 with their EP Last Year Gave Me The Business, Cheer Up Dusty are now steadily releasing new tunes, with two singles released in 2020 and now their brand new 2021 release, “Shirtless and Afraid.”
Continuing on their mission of writing songs that speak to themselves as well as listeners, “Shirtless and Afraid” is the epitome of a pop punk song. Tackling real life struggles such as fighting your inner demons and trying to remain optimistic while everything feels like garbage, the new single is an ode to trying to improve yourself and “be your best.” Even when that feels impossible.
Opening on a guitar intro that sets the tone for the rest of the song before lyrics begin, the track then picks up a bit and through powerful emotionally driven lyrics and perfectly curated instrumentals helps listeners realize they are not the only ones feeling defeated this year. But instead of letting that get in the way of any success, the song reminds us to try to be our own version of “best” – even if it’s a small step one day at a time.
You can stream “Shirtless and Afraid” out now, and connect with Cheer Up Dusty via the links below.
Leave a Reply