Aye Nako Balance Solidarity and Sheer Noise on ‘Particle Mace’

It's been four years since queer punks Aye Nako self-released Unleash Yourself, their fantastic debut LP. Since then, they've signed to Don Giovanni, dropped a 12", and toured with the likes of Screaming Females and Joanna Gruesome; this past fall, vocalist / guitarist Jade Payne lent their axework to Speedy Ortiz bandleader Sadie Dupuis' solo trek as part of her Sad13 touring band. Now, the Brooklynites have returned with Silver Haze, their sophomore full-length. Like Aye Nako's previous work, Silver Haze is deeply mired in the personal — so much so, in fact, that Mars Dixon (who splits guitar and vocal duties with Payne) dug up old childhood tapes for opening track "We're Different Now."

The same intimacy can be found in droves on "Particle Mace," the LP's first single. "Hey Dave, how are ya doing?" Payne howls, checking in with a friend. "I'm in Joshua Tree roaming around today / Been through the wringer and then some / Let me know if you'd like some company." A swarm of guitars follows, echoing the invitation. In these dark times, we could all use some thoughtfulness — not to mention some toughness. Fortunately for us, Aye Nako offer plenty of both. Listen below via NPR.

Aye Nako's new album, Silver Haze, is out April 7 via Don Giovanni. Pre-order it here.