West Friends – “Ruminate”

West Friends’ latest single “Ruminate” is a breath of fresh air in the current pop-punk scene, and Tom Iannello’s engineering adds a professional sheen to the track while also capturing its rawness.

If you have been looking for a song that is somewhere between traditional and contemporary pop-punk, this song is perfect for you. Jordan Renshaw and Isaiah Dominguez have created something that is reminiscent of bands like Yellowcard and Hot Mulligan but also something entirely new.

I love how ‘Ruminate’ addresses mental health support with such authenticity. The lyrics avoid the typical clichés, instead focusing on the power of simply being present for someone who’s struggling. It is a message that will be familiar to anyone who has ever been on the receiving end of help or has had to offer it.

The duo’s combined experience shines through in every aspect of the production, from the tight instrumentation to the soaring vocal harmonies that’ll be stuck in your head for days. It’s safe to say it’s one of the best releases I heard this month so far.

This second single has me beyond excited for their debut album “Junk Drawer”, which is dropping in June, because these guys clearly understand how to balance catchy hooks with meaningful substance in a way that makes you want to immediately add “Ruminate” to your everyday playlist, follow West Friends on social media and tell all your friends about this band that’s about to blow up very soon.