New York pop-punkers State Champs have been making waves since 2010 and on Friday, they finally released their much-anticipated fifth studio album. For a group that’s been churning out anthemic, sing-along tracks since their debut The Finer Things, this self-titled record feels like a natural progression. It’s a blend of looking back to their roots while pushing forward into exciting new territory. With lead guitarist Tyler Szalkowski and vocalist Derek DiScanio taking the lead, along with bassist Ryan Scott Graham and drummer Evan Ambrosio, the band has honed their signature sound—a mix of infectious melodies, sharp production, and emotionally charged lyrics that hit all the right notes.
The album kicks off with “The Constant,” a track that immediately sets the stage for what’s to come. The clean guitar intro, with its punchy rhythm and bright, catchy chords, feels like a nod to Blink-182’s Untitled era—familiar but with its own twist. From there, the energy picks up with tracks like “Silver Cloud” and “Clueless,” where State Champs do what they do best: delivering soaring choruses and intricate guitar work. The melodies are sharp, and the rhythm section provides that propulsive drive that defines pop-punk at its best.
Then there’s “Light Blue,” which slows things down a bit, taking us back to the early-2000s emo-pop-punk days. DiScanio’s heartfelt delivery stands out here, capturing the mix of nostalgia, melancholy, and hope that made bands like The Starting Line so beloved. The jangly guitars and introspective lyrics give the song a reflective vibe, offering a breather before the pace picks up again.
The heart of the album really shines through in tracks like “Too Late To Say,” “Hell Of It,” and “Sobering.” These songs are built on catchy hooks, powerful choruses, and crisp guitar work from Szalkowski. Graham’s bass lines provide a solid foundation, and the production, handled by Anton DeLost, is sharp and well-balanced, letting every element of the band’s sound stand out.
“Tight Grip” is a standout, cranking up the energy with a more punk-driven pace. The track feels like a throwback to the fast-paced, skate-punk roots of the genre, with quick riffs and a driving rhythm section. The influence of bands like Neck Deep is clear, especially in the rapid-fire guitars and precise drumming. At just over two minutes, it’s a short, high-energy blast that’ll no doubt be a crowd favourite live.
“I Still Want To” is another highlight, starting off with distorted guitars before exploding into a chorus that balances catchiness with raw emotion. The song manages to mix vulnerability with energy, showing off the band’s knack for blending anthemic hooks with real heart. DiScanio’s vocal delivery and Szalkowski’s guitar work complement each other perfectly, creating a sense of urgency while still keeping things melodic.
“Just A Dream” offers a shift in tone, stripping things down a bit to let the band’s emotional depth come through. The arrangement is more minimal, but the song still carries that youthful energy that’s been a hallmark of State Champs from the beginning. It provides a bit of a breather without losing the album’s momentum.
The album closes out with “Save Face Story” and “Golden Years,” two tracks that bring things to a close with plenty of energy. Both are fast and fun, with big choruses and layered instrumentation. “Golden Years,” while a great track, feels like it could’ve been more of an epic closer. It’s a solid, high-energy song, but I was expecting something a bit more anthemic or emotionally resonant to leave a lasting impression.
State Champs is a strong album that showcases the band’s growth without losing the infectious, youthful energy that made them stand out in the first place. The production is tight and clear, with each instrument getting its moment to shine. It’s an album that feels both familiar and fresh, capturing the essence of what makes State Champs so special: killer hooks, relatable lyrics, and a sound that continues to evolve while staying true to their roots. Fans of the band will definitely find plenty to love here, and it’s clear that State Champs aren’t going anywhere anytime soon.
FIVE STARS (OUT OF FIVE)
State Champs is out now. Grab a copy HERE
