NYC-based industrial noise-rock outfit Uniform have just released their latest album, American Standard, via Sacred Bones. It’s a record that sees the band at their most vulnerable, delving into intensely personal themes of self-destruction and vocalist Michael Berdan’s lifelong struggle with bulimia nervosa.
‘American Standard’ showcases Uniform’s knack for pairing crushing sonic landscapes with deeply emotional lyrical content. Berdan’s lyrics dig into his battle with eating disorders, exploring both his own experience and the devastating impact on those around him.
The album’s A-side captures the individual trapped in a purgatorial state of crisis, while the B-side reflects on how that personal turmoil ripples out to loved ones. All of this is set against a backdrop of relentless, pulverizing rhythms and monolithic droning guitars.
Long-time members Berdan and guitarist Ben Greenberg continue their partnership here with the addition of Interpol’s bassist Brad Truax and contributions from returning drummer Michael Sharp and touring drummer Michael Blume. With this formation the group’s sound has reached new heights of grandeur, as brutal as it is beautiful.
Guitarist and co-founder Ben Greenberg said of the album: “I wanted to write something overwhelming and all-encompassing for Berdan to lead his narrative through… because I trust and believe in him.” This mutual trust is palpable throughout the record, as the band deftly navigates a wide range of sonic territory, fusing noise rock, industrial, and post-punk.
The album includes the previously released single ‘Permanent Embrace‘, which has already garnered critical praise.
The group are heading out on tour, with a run of UK and mainland European dates scheduled throughout October. They’ll be joined by label mates Bad Breeding for all the UK dates, with select shows in Europe and the US featuring A Place To Bury Strangers and The Body.
UK Tour dates
Oct 01: Manchester, UK – The White Hotel
Oct 02: Newcastle, UK – The Lubber Fiend
Oct 03: London, UK – Rich Mix
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