Following the publications of two novels, including the recent release of ‘Evel America’, Punk poet, Wasps vs Humans (WvH) releases his brand new single, ‘Ugly America’ on October 31.
Known for his commentary based style, it comes to no surprise WvH’s response to the current political and social landscape is reflected in this track. With references to global warming, ‘joke leaders’, celebrities, capital punishment and ‘gun control’, ‘Ugly America’ is an immediate audio assault with its punk style vocal rant and layered rhythmic backdrop of drums, and percussion.
Performed by the punk poet, ‘Ugly America’ features no samples, no keyboards or guitars just one man and his drum kit and guest bodhrán player Linda Plover with beats that build into an explosion of chaos. DIY in the true sense, ‘Ugly America’ is a sonic punch in the face with a vocal that spits out intent and no apology.
Having supported The Fall in one of their last gigs in Ireland, WvHs pays homage to Mark E. Smith with his ‘B side’ cover of The Fall’s track, ‘Rowche Rumble’. In-keeping with the original band’s energy, WvH delivers his own version; a stripped back raw and raucous drum and vocal piece which sits perfectly with it’s A’side.
As drummer/singer of 80’s experimental band 4,000,000 Telephones, who enjoyed critical acclaim from the UK music press and playlisted on BBC Radio 1’s John Peel show at the time, WvHs has always maintained a presence in some form within the music and arts scene.
As a live act, WVH has gigged across Ireland, linking up with the likes of Jinx Lennon and Irish Dundalk rappers TPM. Over the years, as well as The Fall, guest spots have included John Cooper Clarke, Christy Moore, Scroobius Pip and Whipping Boy.
WVH continues to push himself in new directions, from novelist, musician, poet, actor. He returns to form with his first musical release in over a decade, blatantly pushing against the grain, refusing to compromise, going it alone, unafraid and unapologetic. ‘Ugly America’ is released digitally on October 31.
‘Ugly America’ is out October 31, 2019
