Sometimes we just hit “play” on something and it all clicks. The Barbarians Of California had previously been on our radar with various tracks off their debut LP And Now I’m Just Gnashing My Teeth showing up on different Spotify-generated playlists and we genuinely dug what we heard. Then we saw a random post about new single “THE GNARLYCORE CLASS”, decided to venture forth and became completely hooked.
For us, listening through new The Barbarians Of California music is like the first time listening to Every Time I Die all over again (Coincidentally, ex-ETID vocalist appears on previous single “PSEUDO INTELLECTUALS ARE HATING ON MY BAND!!!”). Especially with latest single “THE GNARLYCORE CLASS”, and each and every repeat listen (And there’ve been a LOT of those so far), bringing to mind “We’rewolf”.
It’s barely two minutes and absolutely brutal from start to finish. But also catchy as all hell causing confusion as to whether you should be happily hopping up and down or happily headbanging… or both! The track is clever and crushing with whimsical wordplay, robust riffage, and iconic instrumentation that’s just the tip of the iceberg on what’s already been unveiled (“MODERN FASHION” arrived later in August 2025 with “BOMB TO A KNIFE FIGHT” & “VANILLA LATTE” dropping earlier this year) ahead of TBOC’s upcoming sophomore effort MEGATONS (Due out August 21st).
Then there’s the video, directed by Justin Warren, which definitely has the ETID vibes down (Think “The New Black”) in terms of ridiculousness as vocalist Aaron Bruno teaches/preaches the gospel of RAWK to an eager and rambunctious classroom made up of bandmates Eric Stenman (Guitar), Linden Reed (Drums), Zach Irons (Guitar) and Dave Amezcua (Bass) while imparting precious nuggets of wisdom such as “I am the president of loving your Mom!” to the eager listeners at home and the “students” seated on the floor.
“THE GNARLYCORE CLASS” is out now ahead of TBOC’s second LP MEGATONS on August 21st and you can get the song here, pre-order the album here and then head here, here, here or here for the socials and all the latest news including deets on a just announced run of headline dates (No MA in the cards yet)!