Sydney-based band Clay J Gladstone can be called alt rock, emo, indie, punk. They’ve been called “sad party punkers,” and they like to boil it down to “whatever the hell you want to call it.” But whatever you call it, it’s a blast. Their eclectic style has earned them spots opening for the likes of Electric Callboy, The Menzingers, and Slipknot, and they’ve been dubbed Slipknot frontman Corey Taylor’s “New Fkn Favourite Band” on their tour in December. Their upcoming debut LP Is This How I Die? is out November 1 on Def Wolf Records.
Today, we’re spotlighting Clay J Glastone and their new single off the upcoming album called “Three Cheers for Optimism.” “This is one of my favorites on the album,” vocalist Tim Wisbey says about the track, but warns that not everyone will agree with him. “It won’t be for everyone; it’s probably a little more of a kooky sound from what you would expect from us, but it just makes me feel something, both Lyrically and with the aesthetic. It signifies an important part of the album, which you will get when you hear it! It’s about looking on the bright side, or at least telling yourself to despite having every reason not to as the world around you continues to crumble. This song just reminds me of Fight Club—and we actually reference that sentiment in the lyrics.”
But while Wisbey is unsure if the track is for everyone, I don’t see what’s not to love. With a mathy style that can switch up on a dime, the shout-along anthem swings wildly between catchy and abrasive, sometimes pulling off both perfectly at the same time. Check out the video below.
The band are touring with Sienna Skies this fall to promote their new album, and tickets are on sale now. Follow Clay J Gladstone on Facebook and Instagram for future updates.
