Blood makes noise

After a multi-year break, the experimental punk band The Taxpayers are back with new music that’s as bold and thought-provoking as ever. Formed in 2007 in Portland, Oregon, the band has always been known for blending punk with unexpected sounds. Their upcoming album, Circle Breaker, will be released on March 21 through Ernest Jenning Record Co., and it promises to be their most personal and powerful work yet.

In anticipation of the album, The Taxpayers have released two singles, “Circle Protector” and “Evil Everywhere,” which are now available for streaming on YouTube and all digital platforms. These tracks offer a taste of what’s to come and showcase the band’s continued evolution.

“Circle Protector” is a deeply emotional song that came from a tragic experience. Lead vocalist Rob Taxpayer explains how a chance encounter with friends the night before a devastating shooting changed his perspective. “I learned about this as I held my sleeping baby in my arms,” he reflects, sharing the intense emotions that inspired the track. The song blends the band's familiar punk roots with introspective lyrics, exploring themes of protection, loss, and personal growth.

On the other hand, “Evil Everywhere” takes on the heavy weight of the world’s struggles, questioning what “evil” truly means. Rob shares his thoughts on how the constant presence of death and violence shaped the creation of this song, as the band wrestled with these deep questions while crafting their new album.

With Circle Breaker, The Taxpayers mix different styles, from chaotic punk to stripped-down heartbreak and even songs of hope and love. The result is a powerful collection of songs that are personal, raw, and unforgettable. The album’s themes of death, birth, and change are reflected not only in the music but also in its artwork, featuring a tree stump with new growth, symbolizing life after loss.

The Taxpayers’ experimental punk sound shares similarities with bands like Against Me!, Deerhoof, and Hot Water Music, blending raw emotion with genre-defying elements. Like Against Me!, they explore deep personal narratives, while their chaotic energy and unconventional structures resemble Deerhoof. The band’s darker, more reflective moments align with the political, confrontational style of The Dead Kennedys, offering a unique mix of punk with introspective and societal themes.

For fans who’ve been waiting for The Taxpayers to return, Circle Breaker will be worth the wait. Their unique sound and willingness to explore difficult topics make this album a standout in the punk scene.

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