Photo: Morris Photography
DEBUT FULL-LENGTH LP DIVIDE SET FOR RELEASE SEPTEMBER 24TH
LISTEN: “DIVIDE”
Today, Washington, DC-based rock duo The Slang has unveiled “Divide,” the title track from their forthcoming debut LP set for release on September 24th. “Divide” is about the moment a relationship is over, and you’re bracing for the inevitable impact from the crash about to occur. “Armed to the teeth with style, grace, and aplomb, The Slang is reemerging with their brand new single…,” said V13 in the song’s premiere, calling it “a juicy slice of melodic power pop, reminiscent of one of those radio songs that somehow finds its way onto every format…A very strong first full-length offering, The Slang is confidently moving forward in the right direction, with both precision and self-assurance.”
“I sometimes see a divide growing as people reveal their true personalities,” says frontman John Bobo of “Divide.” “It could be personal or viewed in the context of society. Careful to not choose a side… the hope is that people will explore the divide and find a way to come together.” “Divide” follows the release of “Disguise,” a hook-laden dreamscape that brims with shimmering guitars that explores our tendency to hide our true selves from others, and "Nothing Lasts Forever," about addictions, and unhealthy vices and attachments.
LISTEN: “DISGUISE”
LISTEN // WATCH: “NOTHING LASTS FOREVER”
Divide features 10 sparkling alt-rock gems written by co-founders John Bobo and Felix Nieto, and produced by Nieto. “It’s our first full-length album, so we used that to our advantage to take risks that we may not have on our prior EP’s,” explains Bobo. “As the expression goes, ‘Stories Don’t End,’ so what happens after the movie ends and the credits have rolled? Divide is an album about trying to overcome the inevitable, but continues asking that question of ‘what happens next?’”
Offering a distinct blend of power-pop, alternative, and contemporary rock, The Slang is comfortable testing genre lines and taking their time to capture the minutiae of modern life. With a laid-back intensity that infuses their music, lead vocalist/multi-instrumentalist John Bobo serves as the main songwriter while bassist/multi-instrumentalist Felix Nieto focuses on production. Both artists share a kind of low-key perfectionism: hands-on, hyper-attuned to textural detail, and aware of what elevates a song from good to great. “We want to do it right,” says Bobo. “And we’re willing to do whatever it takes to make the best possible track each time.”
With smooth vocals and striking guitar melodies, The Slang is often compared to bands like Snow Patrol and The Killers, but with a modern twist and more experimental production value. “We care about the experience, whether on headphones or at a live show,” says Nieto, whose production adds a sleekness and edge. Bobo’s introspective lyrics explore singular moments that define human relationships. This beautiful blend of respective talent is evident on Divide, which features the band’s characteristic melodic precision, bright, electric guitar-driven anthems, and top-quality production, but with a more pop-leaning sound.
Be sure to follow The Slang via the links below for the latest news, updates, and tour information, and check out their hilarious Facebook group The Slang Gang.