Unsubscribe from the Underground is the latest EP from the US-based “poolside glitter punks,” Hayley and the Crushers. I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing and interviewing this fun and infectious band for Joyzine in the past, so when the opportunity arose to check out their new music, I jumped at the chance.
This EP marks a noticeable shift from their last album, Modern Adult Kicks. While that release leaned into a more straightforward, hook-driven pop-punk sound, Unsubscribe from the Underground shows a wider range of influences, demonstrating the band’s growing versatility.
The track, ‘Alleyways‘, is classic Hayley and the Crushers, delivering their signature catchy pop-punk energy. The song is a nostalgic ode to singer Hayley’s favourite teenage hangout, an alleyway across from the famous Knitting Factory in Hollywood. The vibe is fun, rebellious, and distinctly youthful.
Unsubscribe… is different in style- , mixing punk rock attitude with the retro stylings of an ’80s girl band. It’s a spirited anthem about not fitting in with any crowd, be it the in-crowd or the outcasts. The band captures that feeling of defiance and isolation with clever lyrics and an irresistible beat.
The EP slows down on Blood Treasure, a country-influenced ballad that’s surprisingly tender yet emotionally intense. It tells the story of two lovers who build—and sometimes destroy—their world together. It’s one of the more experimental tracks on the record, and it shows that the band isn’t afraid to explore new sonic territory.
Let Go introduces a slightly heavier sound, with crunchy guitars driving the track onwards. It’s a song about freeing ourselves from the grip of technology and reconnecting with the real world—a message that feels especially relevant in today’s digital age.
The EP closes with a cover of Juice Newton’s Queen of Hearts, reimagined through the band’s punk-infused lens. The original song’s country-pop charm remains intact, but Hayley and the Crushers add their own playful, energetic twist, making it feel right at home on this eclectic release.
Unsubscribe from the Underground is a bold and dynamic record that showcases Hayley and the Crushers’ willingness to evolve. Each track offers something unique while still retaining the band’s trademark sense of fun and rebellion. For long time fans and new listeners alike, this EP is a refreshing reminder of why Hayley and the Crushers are a standout in today’s punk scene.
Unsubscribe from the Underground is out now via Kitten Robot Records
Hayley and the Crushers- Bandcamp / Facebook / Instagram / X
Review by Hayley Foster da Silva
Keep up to date with all new content on Joyzine via our
Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Mailing List