After making a strong first impression with their debut EP, ASTRO BRAT isn’t wasting any time. Instead of disappearing for months between releases, the dance punk duo is keeping the energy alive with their latest single, “Alarm.” For the band, the quick turnaround wasn’t about chasing trends; it was about getting music into fans’ hands as soon as possible.
The duo revealed they had additional songs ready while recording their debut EP but didn’t have enough material for a full-length album. Rather than letting those tracks sit on a hard drive, they decided to release them while the excitement surrounding the band continued to build. They’ve also found themselves inspired by the talented regional bands they’ve met through touring, creating a healthy motivation to keep pushing forward creatively. Although “Alarm” carries themes of sudden change and uncertainty, it actually began with a much simpler goal.
“We were just trying to write something as simple as we could and as dancey as we could,” the band explained.
That self-imposed limitation became an unexpected creative exercise. By intentionally working within a narrow framework, ASTRO BRAT discovered new ways to stretch their songwriting without abandoning the infectious energy that defines their sound.
Lyrically, “Alarm” explores the shock that comes when life changes faster than expected. The band describes it as capturing those moments when you think you’re succeeding, only to realize everyone else seems to be operating on a completely different level.
“It’s that feeling when you think you’ve been on top of your game only to find out you were playing checkers while everyone else was onto chess.”
Despite tackling heavier emotions, the song still leans into movement, groove, and danceable rhythms. Compared to their debut EP, ASTRO BRAT hopes listeners hear natural growth while staying true to their identity.
“Trying to get things a little more dancey while still keeping some of the grit in there.”
When asked to summarize “Alarm” in just three words, the band offered perhaps the most fitting description of their creative philosophy:
“Keep it simple.”
Musically, the track draws influence from artists like DEVO, LCD Soundsystem, and CRX bands known for blending sharp hooks with infectious rhythms and post-punk attitude. Whether those influences are immediately obvious or not, they helped shape the mindset behind the recording. While it may appear from the outside that ASTRO BRAT is moving at breakneck speed, the duo laughs at that perception.
“We feel like we move at the speed of molasses most of the time.”
Still, the positive response to their debut EP gave them confidence that they were heading in the right direction. Rather than reinventing themselves, they chose to refine what was already working and continue building on their foundation. Visually, ASTRO BRAT kept the same minimalist philosophy. The music video for “Alarm” was filmed with Thrash Panda Media in just about an hour at a warehouse before the band headed to a show later that day. Aside from climbing onto the warehouse roof to enjoy the surprisingly pleasant weather, the shoot remained straightforward and focused. For ASTRO BRAT, visuals play an important supporting role in their music.
“People eat with their eyes first no matter what they’re consuming.”
Instead of creating an elaborate production, the band focused on capturing authentic moments and having fun together; a mindset they say carried directly into their performance later that evening.
With “Alarm,” ASTRO BRAT demonstrates that sometimes the strongest statement comes from keeping things uncomplicated. By refining their dance-punk formula instead of overthinking it, they’ve delivered a single that feels energetic, honest, and perfectly positioned to continue the momentum they’ve built since their debut. Fans looking for gritty riffs, danceable grooves, and relatable reflections on life’s unpredictable turns will find plenty to enjoy as ASTRO BRAT continues carving out its place in the scene.
UPCOMING SHOWS
119 Main Street, Ames | Fri, July 31
Punk Rock BBQ, Omaha | Sat, Aug 1
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