The Barbarians of California are shaking up the hardcore punk scene with their new music video for “Three Letters,” featuring none other than Tim McIlrath from Rise Against. This song is a preview of their highly anticipated debut album, And Now I’m Just Gnashing My Teeth, set to drop on October 4 via ONErpm.
Fronted by Aaron Bruno of AWOLNATION and Eric Stenman of Tinfed, The Barbarians of California blend raw energy, defiance, and hardcore roots to deliver a sound that stays true to the rebellious spirit of West Coast punk. As Bruno puts it, “We wanted to keep everything much more brutal.” Their aim? To thrash both left and right without pushing any political agendas, focusing on defiance rather than picking sides.
The new track, “Three Letters,” started with a heavy instrumental foundation. Bruno recalls how the song took shape, explaining how the chorus came to him suddenly, despite his initial reluctance to sing in a style similar to AWOLNATION. “Rules are made to be broken,” Bruno says, capturing the essence of The Barbarians’ freewheeling approach.
Stenman, known for his work producing bands like ††† (Crosses) and Senses Fail, speaks highly of McIlrath, calling him a positive and inspiring presence. The collaboration was a natural fit for this blast of ’90s hardcore nostalgia.
McIlrath, who lent his voice to the song, adds, “I hope it hijacks the airwaves near you soon.” With a nod to the ’90s and early 2000s hardcore world that shaped both McIlrath and Bruno, “Three Letters” promises to resonate with fans looking for a throwback vibe packed with modern energy.
The Barbarians of California aren’t stopping at a new album and video. They’re also gearing up for their first-ever live show on October 19 at the iconic Troubadour in Los Angeles. Sharing the stage with hardcore heavyweights Strife, Will Haven, and Berthold City, this show is set to be a night of unforgettable intensity. Tickets are available now, so don’t miss your chance to witness the debut of this fierce new act live.
For Stenman, And Now I’m Just Gnashing My Teeth represents a passion project years in the making. He describes the process of creating the album as pure joy, saying, “It felt almost guilty putting our real lives on hold to pursue this, but it was worth every second.”
The album features ten tracks, including collaborations with Rick Rodney of Strife and Daryl Taberski of Snapcase. From the heavy-hitting “No Sir I Won’t Wear Your Jacket” to the energetic “Far Out, Bro,” this record promises to be an explosive mix of modern angst and hardcore roots.
Mark your calendars for October 4, when And Now I’m Just Gnashing My Teeth finally hits the streets, and make sure to catch The Barbarians of California live at the Troubadour. If “Three Letters” is any indication, this band is ready to leave a lasting mark on the hardcore scene.
Get your tickets for the Troubadour show on October 19 today!
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