Whatzername know Freedom isn’t anywhere close to free in their searing, sardonic new single — showcasing today on Tinnitist.
“This song is a tongue-in-cheek anthem to those that work minimum wage in a first-world society,” band members Ashlee Standish, Clairisa Rose and Jess Gold share in a press release. “It addresses the idea of social responsibility, and how hard it is to stay sane while being poor and impossibly trying to get ahead,” Rose continues. “It’s about poverty, and the limitations people face because of their financial barriers … All while living in a ‘free world.’ ”
That fierce perspective defines the St. Catharines/Niagara Falls punk power trio’s body of work, from their 2019 breakthrough single Something to followup offerings Vulture, Heart of the Undead and on to their newly eponymous EP. “For some, music is a hobby, or something you enjoy listening to,” Gold says. “For us, music is as important as breathing is. It’s how we heal, express, communicate, and connect with others on this planet. We’re familiar with the heavier and darker side of living, and have an edge. We are not happy pop music; we’re moody, dark, haunting — yet soothing in a knowing, consoling way.”
Much of Whatzername’s ethos mirrors that of principal songwriter and leader Standish. “I’m a multi-instrumentalist, a poet, storyteller, empath, animal lover, LGBTQ supporter and friend, and encourager of humanity and our need for recognizing our ongoing social, political, and environmental issues. I’m a deep-thinking woman who truly wants to love, and shine light, and ignite it within others. My joy in life is to share ideas; stories and songs about reaching for the impossible dream.
“Being an artist, a songwriter, a musician, a community arts supporter, and a single parent with limited means, music is how I survive and strive. The concept of our songs are about strength, perseverance, embracing living life, and accepting death — all through a sarcastic tone. Stories about the people you meet, both the good kind, and the bad — and why it’s important to effin’ try.”
Get a dose of Freedom above, listen to their EP below, and meet Whatzerhame on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
