Today, Southern California hardcore punk band Human Issue announce their new album In Flesh, set for release June 5th through Smartpunk Records. Fast, direct, and stripped of excess, the band pairs short-burst songwriting with sharp, poetic lyrics and a strict “get in, get out” approach. Most songs land under two minutes, packing hardcore aggression, flashes of melody, harsh riffs, and relentless drums into a tight nine-track, fifteen-minute release.
Having already shared the ripping single and video “Waking,” today Human Issue deliver “Medicate.” The track packs intensity through blazing riffs and breakneck rhythms while addressing the grave issue of addiction. Hunter Martinez and Matthew Watkins dual vocals hit fast and hard, with FIXXER’s Maria Xeno crushing guest vocals building into a triple attack. Stream “Medicate” HERE.
On the experiences that incited “Medicate” Martinez shares:
“‘I wanna live and breathe, I wanna be in your world’
I’ve watched, heard and witnessed so many people indulging in prescription pills/medications. Addiction and dependency shows its face and becomes a really hard reality. I’ve seen friends get really sick… This is about a few of them.”
Founded by Martinez, Human Issue began as a collaborative music collective rather than a fixed lineup. The project emerged in 2021 and dropped their debut Faceless.Nameless in 2022, then heading out on tour with friends rotating in to fill van seats and stage spots. With the creation of In Flesh, Human Issue has settled into a more permanent lineup while still keeping the ethos that started things in the first place.
In Flesh was produced by vocalist Hunter Martinez, Bryan Lothian (of A Global Threat) and Alex Jacobelli (Negative Blast), who also engineered and mixed, with mastering by Nick Townsend at Townsend Mastering. Full tracklist and artwork below.
Human Issue have several upcoming shows in California including April 11th in Ventura supporting Rich Kids on LSD and Good Riddance. The band will perform at Camp Punksylvania festival in June with an east coast run surrounding it. Full dates below.
Human Issue is Hunter Martinez – Vocals, Matthew Watkins – Vocals, Sam Mankinen – Drums, Ryan Marino – Bass, Dylan Moore – Guitar, and Emmett O’Reilly – Guitar.
