Better Living Through Static Vision is the debut full-length by Philadelphia rockers Staticlone. Following an annual string of releases including a self-released demo tape in 2021, a flexi disc in 2022, and another flexi disc in 2023 (both released on Six Feet Under Records), the band unleash 10 tracks of pure fury with their latest offering.

Featuring hardcore alumni from the ranks of Blacklisted, Shark Attack, Armalite, and more, the record is a departure for its members who have stood solidly on the line in the sand delineated specifically for hardcore. In partnership with Relapse Records, Better Living Through Static Vision takes a leap over that line, thrusting them in an exciting, new direction.

Beginning with a short intro track, “Better Living Through Static Vision” slowly builds suspense before segueing into “Honeycomb”, a d-beat masterpiece guaranteed to bring a smile to the faces of lovers of From Ashes Rise. This is one of the strongest and most memorable tracks on the record by far. An interesting feature from this song is the single guitar. There’s no rhythm guitar under the solos–a chance for the bass to shine and a window into the band’s live performances. They intend for the music to be listened to as it would be performed.

Next up “This Light Burns Like Poison,” a song sure to make heads bob and fists clench. Then comes “Sullen Me”, which kicks the record up a notch into ass-beater territory. This song is a thrash revelation that resolves into a groovy breakdown. Keeping things going is “Moths,” with a commanding drum intro into yet another classic d-beat. The longest song on the record at 3:45, the song stays pretty consistent throughout until the toms take over with the outro soundclip.

Side B of the record starts with “Alone in Philadelphia,” which begins with unexpected keyboards. A melancholy motif that transitions into a brooding rock number with soaring guitar choruses designed for late night drives in the dark. “Patching Holes In A Dead Star” is the record’s fastest song that marries crossover with rhythmic lyrics. Vocalist George Hirsch’s snarl really shines on this track.

“Thin Places” employs a dual vocal approach that when combined with its melodic guitar solo takes the record into a “stadium crust” enclave. This might be the catchiest song of the record. The continued versatility of Staticlone’s songwriting is a byproduct of their tenure in the alternative music space. Only true veterans of the scene can write a record this ambitious and meticulous.

Closing out the record are “Lens Flare” and “Red Eye.” The former combines all of the best features of the record–melody, dual vocals, excellent drumming, and aggression and puts them into what is one of Better Living Through Static Visions’ superior songs. The latter successfully carries things out with a haunting crust anthem that evolves into a cascading outro of feedback and melodic refrain. This is a solid first entry into Staticlone’s catalogue and is a must for anyone who considers themselves a fan of hardcore, crust, or d-beat.

Pick up the vinyl from Relapse Records.

Pressing details:

  • 100 – Clear (Friends press)
  • 145 – Cyan Blue and Milky Clear Half ‘n Half with Rainbow Splatter
  • 258 – Iridescent Blue Marble (Relapse Exclusive)
  • 1628 – Oxblood and Yellow Galaxy Effect Merge (Relapse Exclusive)