HARDBALL Puts A New Spin On Grunge w/ Hardcore/Punk Infused S/T Debut And Single “Worried As Shit” + Canadian Tour Dates
Back standing: Jeremy Head (Drums), Front L-R: Jamie Black (Bass), Scott Budgie (Guitar/Vocals), Photo Credit - by Kaila Hald
Canada’s Hardball has emerged from the rainy coast of Vancouver, BC to bring you a raw and erratic punk/grunge self-titled debut album. Vocalist/guitarist Scott Budgie channels distressed and agitated emotions into the writing, while drummer Jeremy Head and bassist Jamie Black amplify those feelings of utter frustration, confusion, and absurdity into an energetic and aggressive grunge sound that is permeated by punk and hardcore influences. Their debut single “Worried As Shit” is the perfect introduction to the trio, they comment:
“It’s a perfect initiation to Hardball, it’s an abrupt punk song carried by a rock beat, with vocals coming from a place of confusion and self-deprecation (in typical HARDBALL fashion). It also has a cool recurring noodly riff that crushes and a sudden clean bridge was thrown in to keep the extreme dynamic range thing happening.”
While this is not nostalgic grunge, Hardball has created something innovative and contemporary while still honouring their heroes from the ‘90s alternative rock and ‘80s punk scenes. They’re having their cake and eating it too, and are offering you a slice.
In support of the album, Hardball is setting out on tour this August with appearances throughout Western Canada. Full tour dates are to be announced soon, and those in the audience can expect a wild time. Fists will be raised, things will be knocked over, and a good time will be had by all.
Turbulent and chaotic, Hardball delivers an enjoyable new album through drums going completely ape all over the place, obnoxious riffing and big low-tuned power chords, and heavily distorted bass guitar. They are recommended for fans of Nirvana, Wipers, and Hüsker Dü.
Watch and listen to the lyric video for “Worried As Shit” via its premiere AllAboutTheRock HERE.
Hardball's self-titled debut album is out July 21st, 2023.
Digital pre-save (Spotify, Bandcamp) - Linktr.ee/hardballbc
Tour Dates:
July 15 - Kelowna, BC - Runaway's Lounge w/ The Motherfuckers
Aug 4 - Vancouver, BC - 648 Kingsway w/ Paul is Dead
Aug 5 - Victoria, BC - TBA
Aug 6 - Kamloops, BC - TBA
Aug 9 - Nelson, BC - TBA
Aug 10 - Edmonton, AB - The Buckingham w/ Take Sides
Aug 11 - Calgary, AB - TBA
Aug 12 - Oliver, BC - Firehall Brewing
Track Listing:
1. Just A Tree (3:55)
2. Worried As Shit (2:21)
3. NRA (2:33)
4. In The Mail (4:16)
5. Me And You (2:47)
6. Chili (5:55)
7. Talk To Me (5:25)
8. Ian’s Song (2:36)
9. I/O (3:18)
10. Open Air (9:47)
Album Length: 42:57
Album Recording and Live Band Lineup:
Scott Budgie - Vocals, guitars
Jeremy Head - Drums, guitars, synth, backing vocals
Jamie Black - Bass, backing vocals
More info: Facebook.com/hardballmusic | Instagram.com/hardballbc
